I’m currently doing research about up and coming areas such as this post as well as looking for local groups.

Hopes this helps anyone looking currently.

I've read BiggerPockets' Real Estate Investing book and am particularly interested in the house hacking strategy, as I'd like to move out of my current living situation.Our main dilemma is choosing between a single-family home (renting out one room to a close friend) or a multifamily property like a duplex or triplex.

Many of these lenders allowing 2nds behind them are more expensive capital (10's - 13's in our current market [high rates - but now showing signs of coming down]).

The single biggest issue in my way currently is obtaining enough cash, whether it be my own, or through partnerships or family/friend-based lending (which I am very hesitant about to begin with as this could potentially strain relationships unnecessarily when money is involved).

Switch Lenders: I’m currently working on refinancing (six other properties), so I’m thinking maybe I should take everything to another lender who might be a better fit.  

I was budgeting for 10% per unit (about $50) but unfortunately my current company has a minimum of $75 per unit, giving me a monthly of $300.

However, check for your prepayment penalty on your current dscr. 

I am currently trying to break my analysis paralysis. 

I’m currently targeting properties in the $200K–$500K range, depending on the location and potential cash flow.