I have been reading the online resources about getting started, searching the market, and even doing tours, but I am hesitant to jump in and buy a house as I have quite a large amount of student debt.

My agent is saying that we are unable to split the contract that way (or reduce the purchase price), so I'm trying to figure out options.

The Hilltop Mall (standard shopping mall, Macys, JC Penny, escalators, if you were alive in the 90s you know),  in Richmond CA was purchased in 2021, but the buyers aren't doing any of our brilliant peanut gallery suggestions.

Networking, local meetups, door knocking, mailers, wholesalers, online forums specific to your area of interest.  

@Max Bellino For smaller properties like your 2–4 unit multifamily buildings, an online cost segregation study is a quicker and more cost-effective option, providing sufficient accuracy for straightforward properties.

I purchased the property from the Shelby County Land bank. 

I'm interested in purchasing land.

Why add an ADU if it can be purchased cheaper?

@Jason Khoury I purchased my current residence, a duplex, from a local non-profit about 5 years ago.

This sounds like a home run and a great first purchase!!