Hi AllI have funds saved up that I want to use as a downpayment on a SFR.

Wow I was about to give up I live in Broward and it’s nice to see that it’s opportunity still here I’m just starting out, I’m saving about 20k to at least get a subject-to deal going you guys really motivate me keep it going brothers!!

I would plan to live in one of the units as a means of saving money.

If you don't you need to save more property and build your emergency savings.

@Mao Pmn Looks like you only budgeted 3% for vacancy, if it were me I'd up that to 8% which would give you about 1 month's rent saved up every 12 months (1/12 = 8.33%).

First, is it a very significant part of your retirement savings?

Ideally a duplex or single family ADU so I can start cutting my costs to save money faster for the second house.I'd love to hear from experienced investors looking back on their first property.

Ultimately, it boils down to who you know.

My stay at the current place is nearing its end and I'm unsure if it's smarter to buy another primary residence and house hack or just buy another rental with the cash I have saved up and find something else to rent. 

Ultimately, a better W-2 will get you the best bargaining position for future deals, so that is what you ought to focus on.