Unless you're going to owner-occupy one of these upstate or out of state properties, you'll need 20% down (+ closing costs) in many cases.

I get that it's fast and easy, all it costs is some cash.

I would like to house hack, the only problem I have run into is cost of property where I am located/could end up for work (Scottsdale & California). 

Currently I like the idea of brrrr, but the idea of loans and debt still scare me though I’m not in a position to cover costs entirely on my own.

-What makes up a Home’s Costs?

I don't think anyone is retroactively reaching out to VRBO to say the cleaning actually cost $450 (instead of the originally listed price).

Additionally, consider sharing the cost of investorlift with others in similar situations to optimize resources.

You will definitely need at least 20% LTC (Loan to Cost).

You can get a 2%-5% rate on a mortgage that you assume and since values have come down in most states over the past 2 years, you may be able to find a seller who would be willing to have you take over the payments and cover the closing costs! 

I have arrangements in place for a low cost rent while I get things rolling with this.