Just another person that can help thru the loan process? 

I am trying to figure out if I should also max out my own personal Roth IRA in the S&P or just use all my money towards RE.

Personally I would pick option 1 because you cash flow is already high and so a slightly lower cash flow with higher LTV has relatively minimal impact on cash flow.

Investment Info:

Single-family residence commercial investment investment.

Purchase price: $140,000

Single family new construction home, 3 bed/2 bath, located in Enterprise, Alabama.

What made ...

Huntsville, Alabama, is rapidly emerging as a top real estate market in the South, driven by its growing population, strong economy, and affordable housing options.

I am new to real estate and wanted to get started house hacking.

I personally wouldn't buy a condo as an investment property unless you don't have a primary residence and plan to house hack it (e.g. buy a 2 bedroom and live in the unit and rent out the other bedroom).

With the right folks, it’s amazing what you can accomplish without ever being there in person. 

My own personal househacking progression was SFH, SFH, Duplex, SFH, Duplex.

Depending on your personal needs from a mentor, you may also want to just start talking with Brokers, Property managers and attorneys in your area.