Hi Tristan, I live in the Triangle and know someone locally who could help you with this!

Live in one unit and rent out the others or live in one bedroom and rent out the others.

All different.Here are some of the things you listed that don't really do much, and why:Projects in the next 10 years:  When people lived where they worked this was important. 

Decks usually aren’t my favorite because of their maintenance costs, but in this case it created great outdoor living space that made the home much more enjoyable and functional.

This gain would be tax free since you lived there for >2 years.

Don't live in NY, live in Iowa. 

I have just a few thoughts on the next steps for you from both a practical and tax perspective:Start with education + mindset: The BiggerPockets Podcast is great, but also consider joining live webinars with real investors, newsletters, and following trusted social media accounts that keep you updated on market trends, tax strategies, and financing opportunities.

Buy a property that would make a good rental once youre done living in it.

You can find those closer to upcoming development or a few Universities for student dorm rentals which is where a lot of co-living seems to be on the rise for higher rents.

(I'm retired military and have five homes total.)This was my first of two loans with Navy Federal and the other homes are VA loans.The military choice program is primarily for military members/veterans who exhausted their VA home loan benefit, so you will need to live in the residence.