House-hacking today often has to rely on much greater lifestyle sacrifice than what I personally did 10 years ago, and requires strategies that would make me uncomfortable like rent by the room, or using local laws that allow Short-Term rental only for owner-occupants. 

tell them you're not ready to have your credit pulled and don't want to start an application, and then just ask what you might qualify for, what is involved in filling out an application, etc.call some national banks and some local lenders. 

Connecting with local real estate investors and getting advice from experts can help you understand market patterns and investment techniques.

Guild is also one of the most expensive lenders out there, they are a big behmoth with private and public shareholders to please, so costs are much higher to drive profit for them.I am a local house hacker/investor and lender for WA State, and would be glad to help you with this @Chelsae Roach!

The BP lender finder tool should be a great way to connect with some lenders but you might also want to check with some local small banks. 

We have a local meetup that meets every first Wednesday of the month.

Hello all, I am a retail center investor based in Dallas, TX, looking to connect with other individuals who are passionate about this asset class.

We’re working with a local agent, just published it recently in the traditional platforms (StreetEasy and Zillow), and looking for additional ideas.Hit me with your best strategies!

Local investor agent here.

Don't rule it out, happy to put you in touch with local NYC lenders that can make the deal work based on how much cash you want to put out.