Networking and door knocking are super powerful moves.

I also need good ideas on where to put that money to protect it from possible super inflation.

Thank you for the advice - it is super helpful. + When you say network with them, should I be doing more than connecting with folks here on BP?

He went to check out a duplex for me (I’m trusting his judgment and as long as the big stuff checks out, I’m not super worried about seeing it myself since I’m still in CT, and this is an investment property not a forever home).

I am unsure if I should invest locally (within NYC) given that it is super competitive and overpriced.

Hey Nick, super exciting that you're looking to get into house hacking!

I'm not a super savvy business guy.

If you're currently making wise financial moves, real estate can be an excellent way to super charge what you are already doing in terms of investing for long-term (appreciation) and short term (cash flow). 

Once both stock and housing prices crashed, banks got super-cautious with their lending (sound familiar?)

They look super cool, but it looks like something that would appeal to a young, trendy crowd.