Hello BiggerPockets Community,TL;DR: Looking to house hack up to 4 units in NJ/NY using FHA loan + 203(k) rehab, can handle 3.5% down payment + closing costs on my own (+/- $100k-$150k)I’m a new investor in my early 30s looking to dive into the real estate market with a strategic approach.

To not waste time or your money...identify correct rental rate quickly and adjust when needed, maximize exposure, prequal anyone you show property to, eliminate unqualified prospects efficiently, gather feedback and make strategic repairs/upgrades, screen prospects effectively.What quality of property is this and in what quality area (demographics, income, level etc)?  

We want to keep in mind that the GFC a lot of that was created by Strategic defaults owners who could afford the payments but chose to just stop paying live as long as they could for free in the homes..

I would slow down, focus and strategically purchase quality deals. 

I currently only have one SFH rental in London Ontario but would like to expand strategically over the next 5 years.PS. also looking for an accountant in Greater Vancouver..All the best

I think there is a lot of opportunity in our city's core, and I'm hoping to contribute to its revitalisation through strategic investment and partnership with some of the small businesses that have emerged here.

You should definitely look into investing out of state, especially if your wife has an American citizenship, that may allow you to structure your business in a more strategic way.

In terms of a first-time investor looking to cash-flow in a strategic market, Comox Valley or Campbell river is definitely one to consider.

Welcome to BP Amy,That is excellent and it sounds like you bought these homes at a perfect time.Good luck and move forward strategically.

If you think the economic end is near, start thinking of ways to have a strategic advantage when/if it does happen, but also take a portion of your earnings and invest in case the sky doesn't fall.