The idea of house hacking a duplex sounds like a smart strategy, and $25,000 towards the down payment and closing costs would be an amazing help.

@Michael Baum also hit one of the most important things - dynamic photography that changes with the seasons and mixes itself up so it's not a stagnant listing.There is no hack to be the best at something (just look at all of the number one bestsellers on Amazon who sell 100 books total), just work on the product, the amenities, the dynamic pricing, and be resilient and responsive to feedback from the first guest on.The dynamic photography is so smart. 

Reaching out to professionals for insight is a smart move, and many in the industry will be happy to share their experiences.Feel free to message me if you'd like help with financing options or to discuss how you could align your engineering background with real estate investing.

How do I approach it in a financially smart way? 

How do I approach it in a financially smart way?

@Vincent KeeleReal estate investing can be a smart move for those facing challenges in Seattle, such as stringent renting laws and high costs.

Idiots with cash overpay and it prices out the smart investor.You'd have to acquire properties at the auction/sherif sale level. 

I have one unit that is specifically made to be wheelchair accessible.

Our company, Smart Property Systems used to use Forte for payment processing of rents. 

Sellers, this is your moment to get creative—focus on pricing smartly and making upgrades that will set your property apart from the competition.