They repossessed it and decided finishing it and running was more profitable than selling.And global changes could have dramatic effects.

The remaining insurance companies doing business in FL are raising their rates dramatically to cover their losses.

I am also currently looking into approvals to develop the lots below and assuming I can, I may drop the price dramatically but not include the lower lots, then I could spec build 2-5 custom ranch homes

My initial post to start this thread was a sort of commendation to him for that, since I was aware he had only set a somewhat lower goal and exceeded it dramatically.

The bright spot is that once I build some cash flow from a few duplexes, that income should boost it to a more respectable amount.

Add market volatility and high vacancies to the equation and fees can increase dramatically with no notice.

It could change your life dramatically.

Anyway, if I could justify rent for $1200/month that would boost my monthly rent to around $250/month which to me I wouldn't hesitate on moving forward with.

With some of the fundamental principles of personal finance being save more money & find ways to reduce spending, house-hacking meets both of those principles and will help boost them. 

While private lending is certainly risky, I perceive it as lacking all the emotional elements that I find unbearable to have to deal with (like listening to the dramatic story of why rent is late again for the 5th time).