That said, many of the issues you pointed out have more to do with the policyholder than the product often times and ironically are parallels to what I'm certain to be issues many of YOUR clients face (inability or lack of desire to understand finances, nuances of financial planning, budgeting, investment options, taxes, retirement planning, estate planning, etc.). 

I have a budget of around $250k.

I ask because there are approved foundations plans that call out specific requirements (like strapping) and may qualify it as a permanent home.

If you were from a specific country that is on a watch list, then expect more of the same.I invest in the USA and UK.

We are looking to do this versus a home office deduction, which we probably wouldn’t qualify for anyway (would fail the exclusive clause).I’m sure this question has been covered before in the forums, but I can’t seem to locate a specific thread on this topic.

New siding shingles can be purchased that are made of non-asbestos material to replace any original ones that are damaged and they are easy to paint - we do that for cosmetic purposes but we don't replace or encapsulate the entire house.That said, I would talk to your Realtor to determine if there are any Michigan-specific rules/regs regarding asbestos siding.

Do you have specific markets in mind for the duplex?

Every market is different, and I won't speak to Cleveland specifically, but for my clients in Chicago, a house hacking strategy is often more about appreciation.

I'm not sure the specifics of that market but my initial gut reaction would be that 90+ day stays may be a bit too limiting to make an MTR worth it. 90 days could work well with the average 13 weeks for travel nurse contracts but may limit your digital nomads, business traveler, etc bookings.

Each has specifics, such as...houses newer than 93..can't back up to power lines...no retaining walls...etc.