I currently own and live in one side of a duplex I picked up just over a year ago.

You're not looking to replace your job and make really good money, plus you live in an area that isn't ideal for buying locally.

Well people in real estate make a living trading their knowledge for money. 

They are not attending conferences that you commonly see on these forums, they are not running marketing constantly.  

I am hoping to buy within the tristate area (NY, NY, PA) but am open to purchasing out of state if the situation works out, as I may not live here forever.

If well engaged, why wouldn't you buy a 2-4 family and live in one of the units?

While you can’t completely control who applies to live in your properties, you most definitely can find areas that are popular with students, young professionals, families, etc. 4) just as important as finding the property, you need to have an exit strategy in mind for the property.

They are meant to reduce your living expenses to save money while getting into a property way under the 20% down threshold.

ANR and occupancy rates peak during this time.March - Continuing the high season trend, March witnesses an influx of snowbirds, spring breakers, and various conferences and events, making it the best month of the year.April - Maintaining the high season, April sees a slight slowdown as spring breakers decrease.

It allows you to go in with a primary residence debt and you have to live somewhere anyways so might as well pay yourself.