This would be for an investment property not a lease with an option to buy.Would it just be through agents, if it is mentioned in the listing etc... or is there another way to find these kinds of properties?

thx experts There are certainly a lot of factors that go into the decision - keep in mind to there are multiple options with no prepayment penalty, so while there will be costs associated with the refinance - a no-prepay-penalty loan to purchase (at low leverage) can make a lot of sense as you can refinance later when rates inevitably come down, but don't have to time/guess when that is

Although I love the concept, I do want to explore with other strategies as I expand my residential portfolio. 

But don't fret; there are other routes to explore.

I am from North NJ so very expensive locally and not sure what type of investment to get into out of all the options.

But you always have the option of chaning it or doing it yourself. 

@Khalid Bryan another option if not affordable rental properties is if you would like to try the BRRR method I would look for properties that are not moving ready or maybe the condition prevents them for qualifying for an FHA loan or low down conventional loan, and do the necessary repairs to make it safe to live in clean and fresh.

When I started exploring OOS investing, it just made more sense for me.

We are considering a STR option for this property for the summer months due to its proximity to the beach.

Exploring real estate as a new investment is smart.