My main interest right now is house hacking — I’d like to buy my first property within the next couple of years and turn it into the foundation for a rental portfolio.I don’t come from a real estate background, but I’m committed to learning and putting in the work.

Helps avoid a big upfront commitment and gives you time to get financing in place

You sound committed and resilient, but like @Chris Seveney said, learn and move on.

"residential use".All this however will require you to go back to the seller.Title insurance could cover zoning violations, however you have to see on the title commitment what was reported there.

That local knowledge and commitment can be a real advantage, even when prices are steep.

While $4k–$5k is common for STR tax accountants, you don’t necessarily need to commit to that cost right away.

if someone has extensive knowledge, a verifiable track record of success, and excellent credit it IS possible to purchase real estate with no personal capital committed.

They can share what to watch for and potential off-market deals.If you want, I can give a quick checklist of what to inspect and questions to ask the seller before committing.

Many people don't realize that even a title commitment, a contract where the insurer agrees to insure title if its conditions are met, limit liability to the amount the proposed insured spends in trying to meet the commitment requirements. 

If you don;t own your home already, I highly recommend househacking.