We understand that everyone needs X of amount of money to live (food, insurance, gas, utilities) etc, so depending on the price point 3x gross is not enough. 

For example, they could log ten hours at a food pantry, apply for a grant, and I would pay $200 (10 hours x $20) to the food pantry.

Our units we require 3x rent to qualify because we do not want the tenant to be so on the edge of what they can afford that if anything goes wrong they are deciding between paying the rent or purchasing necessities like food.  

I have a tenant that has put multiple holes in different walls, and the home is layered with food on the floors and tables, and counter.

Yes,  a 4 plex is considered a residential property but this deal has a house on the same parcel which makes it a 5 plex technically.

People pay with cash, credit card or with some exotic food from their home state (Louisiana).

Friends have said I'd enjoy living here (32 yo, enjoy being active in nature, smart kind people, and delicious food).I househacked my first home near Seattle and am interested in doing something similar in NC.

I just want control of this parcel since it is directly across from my home that sits on 15 acres.

I'm new to real estate investing and I am wondering if there is a market for a 16 acre parcel of land that is zoned for ag property outside of Nashville. 

but, food for thought - cash flow has been compressed because of where the market is.