Due to the current interest rates, you probably can't live for free, but you can definitely learn how to house hack in that first year, reduced your personal housing costs, learn the rent by room/co-living strategy on-site, and then probably break-even after move out, but most importantly, it is possible to make that work in 2025 with today's rates.It just takes being open-minded and willing to be flexible for the 1st year.  

We would need to know your current operating expenses (and rent) to be able to provide any suggestions.

That means creating a clear budget, forecasting cash flow, and maintaining a detailed financial model that tracks both the current and future performance of your portfolio.Tax Optimization & Risk ManagementBeyond financial clarity, strategic tax planning and risk management are essential to safeguard and grow your real estate investments.

Issue is, in these "bad" deals the government comes after the lease option seller for predatory lending practices and the eviction / foreclosure process is a nightmare.

Quick question on those who have done seller financing:- Buying a 0.3 acre downtown fort lauderdale multi family, negotiated an around 1M price w lot of development rights, double lot. seller got it way back early 90s for pennies- got good credit 800+, w2 job etc put 40% down and mortgage bank offered 6.62% 30yr fixed (CF negative as this would make current rent roll not too much compared to the PITI)- property is in ok condition, needs 20-30k repairs which seller OKd, and all 3 tenants are month to month, pay bit under market but also ok- seller would like to do seller financing, interest only at 5.75%, 30yr amortization at 7yr balloon (CF would be positive) - id be paying some principal as well, just to grow some equity- buying this deal for the future development of the area (las olas, kushner broward crossing) so not really worried even if we overpay for it now, but never done creative finance as i always relied on a strong W2 job to get good loans but obv im used to 3% 30yr rates from covid times not this 6+ environment..Goal is to hold the property 3-5yrs, and then actually develop it or sell half the land / refinance, pull out HELOC if it appreciates.Questions:1) What does he know that i dont? 

Question: your current model worked well.

We currently have a DSCR loan on this property and paid $180k for it. 

These were financial mistakes we made when we were younger, and unfortunately, they snowballed over time.We currently rent but own a rental property out of state that cash flows $600/month and has about $190,000 in equity.

We are itching to get another.Our current STR has COC return of 43%, we are making on average $12,480 a year. 

While I acknowledge that Long Island may not currently be the most optimal location for the BRRRR strategy, I am eagerly exploring opportunities in the tri-state area, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania (with particular interest in the Poconos), Connecticut, and beyond.