In fact prior to my interest in investing I knew less than the average adult about houses and how they were bought/sold. 

Is househacking and investing with partners mutually exclusive? 

Does it commit me to the section 8 program exclusively?

A couple days later, Saturday, I get a dotloop doc to sign... a new exclusive buyers agreement. 

Find a good wholesaler, if you can become a reliable buyer you will get exclusive deals.   

Did some quick googling and found some interesting links. http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Oakland-hill...https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/publications/documents/p...http://web.holycross.edu/RePEc/hcx/HC1503-Kiel-Mat...http://time.com/money/4035181/recovering-financial...http://www.ocregister.com/2017/10/11/napa-and-sono...TLDR;- Exclusive properties in wooded areas with great views commanding a premium before the fire will get hit with a significant dip in the short term due to change in homebuyers priorities.- Reconstruction takes a long time.

I have no opinion on the website mentioned by @Jeff Helm, but I voted for his post because a proper LO is not impacted by DF.Don't use 'rent to own' or 'rent credits / purchase credits' anywhere.Mine are a lease with separate 'exclusive option to buy' and any consideration reduces closing costs at exercise.  

I wouldn't rely exclusively on living in a place as a model to buy anything, but IMO if you are planning on house hacking, its possible to think a little more long term about your purchase.

You qualify for the 121 Exclusion if you have owned and lived in the property for at least a total of 24 months out of 60 months.

It will vary depending how many tenants are in there, adults v children.