Thinking otherwise is simply arse-backwards, and how our region unfortunately as whole has thought to be the ideal way for far too many decades now.

Ideally in the south mirror lake area but we are open to any place around there.Anyone have any suggestions or stayed in that area before?  

Never ideal to be that leveraged, but if the deal makes sense could be a good scenario.

For many, buying a duplex to live in on one side while renting the other is an ideal way to get your feet wet.

If so, then the most logical course of action is to get the degree with the broadest appeal and highest pay within the time frame you envision, i.e. 5-7 years, and come out of college with the smallest debt load possible, ideally $0. 

85K or less would be ideal.

I'm just starting down what I hope will be a similar path, looking to do a 203k rehab and house hack, ideally in Dorchester.203k seems like the way to go but I want to be sure I'm working with a lender & agent who have experience with this type of financing.Sounds like you've found a lender who is working out well?

- When would be the ideal time for closing to occur?

I deal with highly affluent people and the relationship and trust is everything to them.Everyone has freedom of choice to run their business how they see fit but this is not my cup of tea.

My thought process is that if I can find a property with better ROI with leverage vs cash then this would be ideal because I also get the tax benefits and keep extra cash for future investments or enhancements.