I learned the hard way that under 15% is a bet, not a plan.

You are literally betting the farm @Timothy Loberg.

How do realized returns compare to initial projections for these deals?

I’m using my VA benefit and targeting small multifamily where rents can cover most (or all) of the mortgage.When screening deals quickly, I’m currently prioritizing:- 1% rule as initial filter- DSCR ≥ 1.25- 7%+ cap rate (if possible in this market)- Positive cash flow after realistic expensesFor those actively house hacking or investing in Orlando:- Are these thresholds realistic right now?

With the large negative cash flow, this could be a very risky purchase.Two recent studies show that in virtually every large city it is initially cheaper to rent than to purchase.

The remaining 10 acres is gently sloped and wooded- initially I wanted to build 4-5 log cabins to use as STRs but after looking in to the costs and requirements it seems like a bad idea.

I’ve been working on a ground-up townhome development in Sevierville, TN and thought I’d share a few observations for anyone looking at STR-focused projects in high-tourism markets.One thing that’s become very clear is that designing specifically for long-term operational durability matters just as much as initial projections.

Initially plan was for me to cosign for her to buy apartment which I believe is not the good idea since we will not get Step up in basis when we inherit?

You need a system to initiate the transfer of management and current rental documents and possibly vendor contracts. 

I purchased only 2-3 years ago @140k and appraised last week at $275kI was initially interested in doing a redo but even dropping two full points, I was saving maybe $100/month.