I think a lot of people are using direct mail, and a key to buying direct mail or any other form of advertising is reaching the right audience.

I think you can use the calculator like 5 times for free without the PRO membership, but for me, the $232 (20% discounts are given on all the webinars, etc.) -- it was well worth the price since I am 100% committed to getting involved in REI.

On the job training works for me.  :-)

Some different ways that have worked for me are writing tailored letters to property owners who's property fit what I'm looking for (ie pitched roof, mostly brick, etc), sending emails and calling for rent ads on Craigslist and seeing if they are interested in selling.  

I'm already pre-approved with the 2nd broker he recommended (first was a flake), he has looked at 1 property that he recommended for me so far.

So you likely need to do your own research to determine whether SFR or multiplex is the correct choice for you (I could make a case either way but for me I chose duplex to quad and expect to shortly move into the 5+ unit properties).You likely know this but FHA requires owner occupancy so you would be house hacking a multiplex.  

However she is o lay wanting assistance in getting more reservations for bookings.This is a bit non traditional for me as I operate a full service management company.

Anyone come across this before or have any advice for me?

For me it usually turns out to be another state.

My long term goal is to 1031 exchange a portfolio of residential investment properties (ideally all multiplexes, but probably some 1-2%/mo sfrs) into a larger commercial property, ideally 15+ units, with a much more hands off operation. with that in mind, would it be better for me to save up for a larger down payment and never live in my properties, only manage from within 50-75miles (my Dallas proper neighborhood is NOT in my current budget right now) or would it be okay to #HOUSEHACK my first one and then househack a second one in 18-24months, etc. anyone go down this path before that can offer some advice?