That's what it all boils down to. 

Last year was back to earth; a glut of available properties drove the rates down for everyone and a drop in visitors also increased vacancies.

You’re left doing all the work: finding deals, inspecting properties, putting your own money down while they take no risk at all and still expect 50% of your profits until they’ve made $500,000.

It really comes down to your risk tolerance and long-term goals.

It’s a lower risk strategy since you’ll be living in one of the units, and you’ll qualify for low down payment loans.

Also, I am assuming since you house hacked that you only did 5% down, which then increases your mortgage payments compared to 25% down buyers.

Thank you for breaking down the cost for me.

Perfect,  I really think that will come down to overall preference. 

I pay a neighbor's kid $10 a week to roll 2 cans down to the street and back. 

So, now we are barreling down that process as we had not originally thought we'd be going that route and I am trying to figure out how/what sources I'm allowed to use to verify their income.