I even know some builders that will allow 100% down, which some investors like. 

You're right, there are definitely investors out there managing 6 to 10 single family homes all on their own.

It is also helpful because we are Realtors and real estate investors and it provides a cushion for months that are leaner than others.

Continue to network with other investors, lenders-- traditional, private, and hard money.

Are you a gambler or an investor?

I've seen too many investors fall into that pit, letting their hearts rule their heads.

For investors, HELOCs are more restrictive and a HELOAN is always an option.

Some investors also bridge the gap with 0% intro credit cards or business credit lines (just be strategic with those).Also, there are hard money lenders who can fund both purchase and rehab — where you’d just need to cover the down payment and closing costs.

Anyway, I'm curious to hear perspectives from more experienced investors, should I keep searching for a property to house hack here and potentially settling, or keep renting and just save more so at my next unit I can really find a good deal for my first property?

Investors use it to see if a deal makes sense.👉 The Formula:Cap Rate = Net Operating Income (NOI) ÷ Property Value • Step 1: Find the NOI (Net Operating Income). • Take the annual rent income. • Subtract expenses like taxes, insurance, and maintenance (not the mortgage). • Step 2: Divide NOI by the purchase price (or property value).📊 Example: • Rent income: $24,000/year • Expenses: $6,000/year • NOI = $18,000 • Purchase Price = $300,000Cap Rate = $18,000 ÷ $300,000 = 6%✅ A higher cap rate = potentially higher return (but usually higher risk).✅ A lower cap rate = safer area/property, but less return.