It's all well and good and groovy to have a smart refrigerator or wireless security system...until those devices/systems offer up every little bit of personal & private information available on the IT systems they are connected to. 

I've been studying for the past 4 month my Real Estate Sales course and been reading REI books, listening to BP podcasts and gaining as much information as possible.

We're really just starting our research and trying to suck in all the information we can but I hope to network and meet some people here that might help us on our way and possibly avoid some simple mistakes!

I'm sure you'll find an immense resource of networking and information to help you achieve your goals!  

great information. 

Even if you don't end up getting a loan with them, you'll get information to take to the next lender you talk to and further your education.  

I am here for all the amazing information and experience that this site has to offer.

I was having an informal conversation with a lender yesterday and he mentioned that house-hacking can provide the benefit of more favorable lending terms, but I didn't get the full details...I'm seeking insight as to whether purchasing a MFR as a personal residence (house hacking) can allow a smaller down payment (20%) or more favorable interest rates than if purchasing a MFR and renting out all units.

There is a lot of free information on here and on the web that can at least get you educated a little more on real estate. 

I found this piece of information on job growth in Cleveland.