These were all originally live-in units we just slowly collected and have pretty good loans (VA or my 2020 2.5%) hence not as optimized.

Yes.Is it optimal?

You don't achieve positive cash return until you recover all the cash you put in. 

I think the better question is what you’re trying to achieve with your first house hack.

Hi All,
At the end of the year, I try to look back and try to figure out what went well and poorly... any why. I'm just past a decade of real estate investing and am starting to set annual goals for myself. 
I've st...

Optimize it.

You are unlikely to ever achieve a return matched by the S&P long term projection.Note I use S&P as one example and not necessarily the optimal example.Good luck

It has to be marketable, but there are much better properties than mine in this neighborhood.It comes down to 3 basic pillars, and I'll give one example of each here, and will go into more depth on each when I have a bit more time.1) Listing Optimization - Bullet points, color.

Our market has experienced an up-tick in coastal STR interest and demand and we've had to work overtime to ensure our investors are aware and able to move decisively when the proverbial opportunity knocks - in the form of the optimal listing or scenario. 

Being near major employers and hospitals helps, but still confirm tenant profile, parking, and whether the area draws long-term renters or more transient turnover.Cash flow target reality checkOn a duplex or small multi around 480k, $200 to $400 monthly cash flow is achievable, but usually only if one of these is true: you buy below market, there is value-add upside, or your financing terms are strong.