Ask the loan agent what the most optimum method is.

I want to purchase a small multi-family property in the next 6 months and to use the house hacking method to its full potential. 

Since bulk owners often purchase units by these methods, board members who are bulk owners will no longer be able to add to their portfolio in this way.

I have been learning and going on appointments for a few months now, trying to figure out what method sticks.

Check out other info on the Bigger Pockets forums about the BRRR method! 

One method that has worked for me is family and friends willing to invest with me on a project by using their capital for down payment and improvements while I hold the financing.  

This is allowed under Fannie Mae guidelines but I am having a hard time finding someone who is familiar with this method.

The BRRRR method, or @Corby Goade's model works because time is your friend. 

Find Brandon's videos on YouTube for the "four square" method of analyzing homes and practice.

Knowing that a) we do have the ability to withdraw contributions tax-free, and b) we have been keeping some "powder dry" lately due to general market conditions, what are the group's thoughts on withdrawing some/all of our contributions for REI use?