Are you looking to find a home to buy for yourself to live in? 

Now, are you planning to house-hack and live in one unit, or going full rental?

It makes sense for house mates, spouses etc. to be Additional Insured on a renter's Insurance policy if they also live there and keep their stuff there (although I think anyone on the lease is typically covered anyway).

At minimum, stage the living room and primary bedroom to give it some warmth.That said, have you thought about cutting bait and putting your money into a market where the numbers actually work?

If you plan to buy in your hometown, buy a 2-4 unit, and live in one of the units.

This family member does not live in the condo and it's valued upwards of 1M.

I live in Jackson, MS, and have met Walter.

I live in Fl. where insurance is pretty costly but I am also investing in states where insurance seems less expensive.

Houston's got a lively mid-term rental scene, great for folks staying a few months.

Where you live in relation to the investment property shouldn't matter.