Classic head v. heart battle here. As of right now I have two options as I see it:
A) 2 bed, 2 bath town home. Middle unit. Has all the upgrades I need - hardwoods, back splash, etc. Has more curb appeal and a teensy bit more centrally located. Could have one roommate at ~$400. Price: $144,000 (would likely try to get them down to $140K).
B) 3 bed, 2.5 bath town home. End unit. Has hardwoods in kitchen, carpet in dining/living. 10 years older than A. Still decent but more in a student community than young professionals. Could have two roommates at ~$400 each, $800 total. Price: $135,000 (would likely try to get them down to $130K).
With my new career in real estate, my income for the first few years is not guaranteed. I have adequate reserves, but option B is tempting because it would mean I'd barely have to touch any of it, and could thus save a large amount of my income (think 75%+). Don't factor bank financing into any of this. I haven't seen B in person yet, but will try to on Monday.
I will say, my home is my sanctuary. Last year I was somewhat miserable because of one roommate who always was home - he was in the kitchen when I wanted to cook, was watching TV loudly when I wanted to study, etc. In those moments I just reminded myself of the rent checks that were coming in and I got through it. But I think it's a matter of roommates because the year before that, I was actually friends with my roommates and we had a great time - we'd go out to eat together, go to concerts, etc. So as long as I find some roomies that are aligned with my lifestyle, I think I'll be fine.
I estimate that I'll stay 5-7 years - I'm 24 and single right now, but I do have to keep a potential SO/family in mind. With that, B would be easier to shove into my rental portfolio as it would likely be right at the 1% rule which I'm ok with.
Thoughts appreciated :)