Meanwhile, sales of properties worth $1 million and over are up 106.5% in the past year, as wealthy urban dwellers are purchasing homes elsewhere to escape pandemic-related restrictions and social unrest in the inner cities.

Some restrictions allow partial STR renting, but not enough to focus on that strategy.

Fines with no warning owner call and other restrictions?

I’ve worked in construction for a long time, and currently work for a large property management company doing maintenance in Springfield, so I’m capable, time is the big restricting factor for me now.

Lenders usually give loans to full-time workers especially now where Covid-19 tightened up lending.Alternatively if you have friends or family willing to help you can probably get a property that way.

In my opinion, a duplex constitutes two distinct dwelling units, and consequently the restrictions imposed by this section do not apply. 

I should say that you can cash-out sooner, but you're restricted to using the value you purchased the property at, not a new ARV.You could also explore finding a local bank for a portfolio loan; since these are non-conforming loans they keep on their own books, they make the rules entirely... including how long you have to wait for seasoning. 

For one reason or another, you may be restricted from claiming a home office deduction.

With the current pandemic and eviction restrictions, what advice do you have for this situation?

Nonetheless, I'm currently exploring the potential of buying a House/Apartment/Condo (maybe a Co-Op, but preferably not b/c of the restrictions associated with them) within the next 6-12 months, potentially with a friend.