I'm wanting to get into a multi-family house hack in 3-6 months. I'm currently not in my own place and would like to be on my own as soon as possible, an apartment is also an option.I started a new job 3 months ago th...

Also be prepared to pay 12-14% interest and 2-4 pts.

Though these events are not the norm, some may prefer to be prepared. 

I can connect you with a real estate friendly tax preparer in the Bay Area if you need.

Any study/preparation tips you can share?

I looked up owners - names didn't match, and if it was PMs, then "out of area" doesn't work very well.I do have owner's numbers but I can't use them because I got them through my job.Can I get them more official way and call them and see what I am dealing with just to be prepared?

@Nathan GrabauFirst off, congratulations on your diligence to prepare yourself to invest. 

Luckily, I've prepared myself early to have cash reserves to cover vacancies and if they decide to move forward finding another apartment I told them to be my guess.

As @Taylor L. and @Charles Carillo have wisely pointed out, this isn't a good idea.Whenever I have a contractor suggest this I always ask them, "if we lose money on the deal are you prepared to contribute to your share of the loss?"

We've considered the new ductless systems, but until their price goes down, we're not prepared to move forward with that.On another note... consider the impact of your heating choice on your property value and hence your property tax.