HOUSE - HACK DILEMMA

[Quashema Watkins]

Hello Bigger Pockets Friends!

I'm a having a newbie dilemma and need some perspective

I want to house hack a 3-4 unit in North Jersey but its so hard to find a property within my budget (P.I.T.I max payment of $2350), in a descent area or block, and that does not have to be REHABBED (not that I think rehabbing is bad.. it's great but I did not want to do that for my first property and as newbie I guess I am scared to take on that LOL)

I am thinking of a 2 unit property (I'm single no kids), rent out one floor and for the extra rental income have a roommate to rent a room in my apartment as an option.

I have lived alone for 10 yrs so this will be a BIG adjustment even can say a sacrifice for me if I chose this strategy.

Can anyone share their experience with roommate in regards to search & screening services used and lease agreement tips, etc?  

Thanks for any and all ideas, feedback, and perspectives!