@John Dickerson  A very broad question but in terms of what you legally must provide as a landlord it comes down to how the laws of your state define "habitability" of a rental property. 

There are many rental units in the city that are not up the standard of habitability and fly under the radar. 

No because people want different temperatures and have different climate control habits. 

After all the sole focus is collect your rent so who cares if this does actually exist and could do harm both mentality and physically. 

If you do choose to allow them to keep the animals I would amend the lease with clauses addressing the pets, charge deposits, and require that the tenants show proof of renters insurance covering the animals if they would cause harm to anyone.

On a personal note, I've found that developing curiosity as a lifelong habit has made for a pretty fulfilling life, both in and outside of investing. 

I will tell you that you will need to learn some new skills and habits as well as getting the whole family involved. 

Look up the VA codes law on bats and habitability.

You don't have to have 20% down if it is owner-occupied; you may have to pay PMI but build that into your costs when looking at the deal.Regardless of whether you want to house hack or not, I would recommend getting into the habit of analyzing deals. 

No harm lolYou’re probably pretty close to your stats.