First time home buying questions

[Markell C.]

Hey everybody,

I’m a 25 year old, new to the RE game, looking to buy a rental property with my father (preferably a duplex so we can house hack). My credit is between 730-755, and together we have about $12,000 saved up in cash.

My father recently ran his numbers with US Bank (I ran numbers with QuickenLoans last year and wanted to gain more knowledge before running my credit again). I’ve been doing research (YouTube, BP, these forums, ect).

I guess I'm wondering where I should begin or what programs (FHA, NACA, Conventional, ect) people would suggest going with/looking into. We don't mind living at the property for a 1+ years.

Also, should I run my numbers before or after talking to an agent?

Thanks to everyone in advance!