Partnering with landowners is an interesting angle, I’ve thought about it but haven’t come across the right opportunity yet.

Lock the 3.5% house hack now, but take it in your name unless the lender explicitly allows LLC; it keeps future refi options wide.

Really need to attack the W2 angle.  

For small multifamily (2–4 units), most first time investors go with conventional loans since they’re widely available and have solid rates, usually 20–25% down for investment use.

When you find the seller is willing to do "creative financing", your options and cash flow open up wide.

Now results vary WIDELY by market, but heres a general benchmark to get you started.

Approach it not from the angle of asking them for a favor, but of you providing an investment opportunity.

Do the math: How much do you stand to lose in 3-4 months (timelines vary widely, depending on the state/market, but 3-4 months is certainly not crazy) of lost rent while pursuing the eviction?

Another angle is exploring Midwest markets, where similar properties often cash flow stronger and can offer higher long-term appreciation, so if relocation or out-of-state investment is an option, you could offset current losses by reinvesting in a more favorable market.

Baltimore is certainly an area you need to go in with your eyes wide open and with an agent who knows locals rules and all its idiosyncrasies.