Many investors got their start this way and are eager to see young investors win!

This is what finding your niche is all about if I am in a room with 10 realtors I will win the house hacker at an alarming rate but I will lose the battle with "forever home agents" at a much higher rate so I simply find house hackers and help them meet their goals.

The best scenario is a ground-mount solar PV system with a 'sell-all' PPA agreement where your business (you as pass-through member) own the ITC and bonus depreciation.

It's no different than what you would be doing working a W2, except with the the bonus of being self employed and being able to take deductions and get smart with your taxes.

Refinished bathroom, refinished basement, turned garage into bonus room/ mother-in-law suite, upgrades backyard with fireplace and pool.

Great question, plus I've never seen it before on BP so bonus points for being original. 

Having a VA loan will be a big win but as Hamp mentioned you want to know your exit strategy so if the current Multi Family market is not good SFH's are always a quality option and understanding the areas and the appreciating neighborhoods you can put yourself in a quality position.In terms of quality of the house definitely play it a bit safe to start especially since you will need to live in the property.

If you win you will need to pursue and pay for title insurance.Local PMs can be a good reference to help with a drive by or walk by.  

They still get paid from the transaction so it's a win win.

It's a win-win as it is just one more non-cookie cutter tool I can offer to help people grow their portfolio without being hampered by expensive and too often punitive management contracts when not needed.