Commercial lenders will typically lend to an LLC.Appraised value is based on rental income, not on comps.Downsides:Probably adjustable.Probably higher rate.Probably get to harass you for your financials on an annual basis.

He is an investor himself and understood exactly what I was talking about.After we received our approval letter last week, I emailed him about a possible construction loan with his institution and his response surprised me.  

Absolute convinced real estate is the long term answer to financial security.

I know I can make the live-in/house hack option work financially, but I'm not sold on moving to Allentown...

Depending on your financial situation I would roll the dice.

@Jimmy Ready From a financial perspective, the biggest impediment is that you will always have to pay MI.

Gaining financial independence while doing it is not a bad thing either.

In fact, it could even be detrimental because it can lead to being a cocky lone wolf who doesn’t need to seek out more experienced financial partners for their more seasoned opinions and calculations.  

I agree with the masses - hold true to the financials. 

@Marianne Ciulla, did you ever find a good financial advisor?