If house hacking isn't the best option for me, how would you recommend starting out to build up some investments.

Mobile home parks can be very profitable, however be sure to understand the different models.Park owned homes, is where you own the land and the mobile home.

Welcome to BiggerPockets Lee and best of luck investing!

Before getting started, I’d recommend focusing on three key areas:Strategy Selection – Understand the different investment strategies (BRRRR, short-term rentals, etc.) and determine which aligns best with your goals.Market Research – Study the market you want to invest in, including property values, rental demand, and economic trends.Laying the Foundation – Take proactive steps now that will set you up for success later.

Best,Alberto Rivera

Not only would it decrease your monthly mortgage but you'd be able to get into it with a very little down payment since you'd be living in one side of it. 

You are in Massachusetts and it must be done very specifically.

What seem to be the best zip codes for rentals?  

Quote from @Amanda Nelson: Hello - I found a very compelling investment property and the agent and her preferred lender are suggesting that the VA loan currently on the property is assumable by a real estate investor.

I've now used it twice.The program requires 10% down, must be a rental, no PMI, and has a very high standard of credit.Last I did it (Summer 2022), my rate landed in the low 5%.