To discover suitable investment opportunities, it is crucial to conduct thorough research, analyze local market trends, assess rental demand, consider job growth, evaluate neighborhood dynamics, and anticipate potential appreciation.

The median rent is projected to continue its slight upward trend, reflecting the broader housing market dynamics​​.Key InsightsPrice Growth: Anticipated 9.3% increase in home prices over the next year.Inventory Increase: Slow rise in inventory levels, still favoring sellers.Buyer Demand: Strong out-of-state interest and local job growth driving demand.Mortgage Rates: Expected stabilization, potentially easing affordability issues.Rental Market: Stable with slight monthly rent increases.Overall, the Birmingham real estate market is poised for continued growth, with rising property values, strong demand, and improving inventory levels.

The trick to looking upstate is finding enough population density and avoiding the seasonal, 2nd home areas. 

House hacking with a multifamily unit sounds like a smart strategy,I'd recommend starting by checking out local market conditions and connecting with other investors nearby.

If you like the house and the area and want to live there and its habitable, go ahead and try to get a plain vanilla conventional loan from the local credit union and mortgage broker. 

I am trying to reach out to local bank to see if they can give any options. 

Heeeey BiggerPockets FamilyI am a verrrrrry new multi unit investor (experience in single family home investing and renting out to the Section 8 population) with the goal to buy/hold properties for cashflow.

Additionally, Wilkes-Barre Property Management is well-reviewed and known for their professionalism and expertise in the local market.

Its in a small town (20k population) and has no comps.

Some examples of strategies and mortgage options that can enhance investment are:- Check with a local credit union to join.