Our goal in investing is long term benefits (we would like to plan for retirement and helping our kids get started as adults), also plan to gain passive income, maybe gain one property every other year or so. 

I will be in a much better financial position if I choose to do this after the 60to 90 day period.  

If the numbers you’re hearing were from a property manager and you’re planning to do it yourself you will do much better than what you heard it was doing in the past :)

You can buy down the rate but it will not make sense if you plan on doing a refinance in the next 3-5 years.

It comes with all the downsides of MF and not enough of the synergies that you get with larger projects.It also comes down to your financial goals: because more doors means also more headaches.

I am planning on owner financing

Both told me that their department doesn't do environmental studies on properties, and suggested to talk to the Planning & Zoning / Developmental Service.

The cost starts with  1.) plan cost (survey, civil engineer, site plan, architect, structural engineer, mechanical/electrical/plumbing (short for MEP) plans, etc.).

My wife and I are both W2 and we are evaluating to buy a vacation home to enjoy it, but planning also on renting it as a STR while not being there.

But while the plan was always to house hack, I didn't spend enough time looking at what would make the best rental.