How to get that first deal - TIPS for a beginning investor

[Jack Gause]

Hey guys, 

I'm a new investor looking to get into SFH as rentals or as fix n flips, whichever exit strategy works best when the right deal comes along. Anyway, I feel like I'm at a roadblock in terms of getting my feet wet and obtaining that first property. After applying for a loan on a place, I was told I am $121 /month away in income to reach the DTI requirements that a conventional mortgage has. I even got a minor raise at work (which helps but am still short) and I am planning on moving in the next couple of months to bring my rent down about $200, also, I have $0 in other debts (student loans, consumer, etc.).

My question(s) to you guys is this:

1.) How can I increase my monthly income to meet that threshold? 

• - I have considered getting another job, but with everything going on at work (Currently getting a certification) the free time I do have, I want to spend learning and building my RE business.

2.) What other forms of creative financing are available so if another great deal comes along I won't have to pass it up because I can't get funding for the deal? I am a creative person but being new to this world I can't seem to think of how to make this work.

Heres a little background on the deal I had to pass up:

• Purchase Price: 349,900

• Down Payment: 25% ($87,475)

• Monthly Rent:‬ $3600 (pre expenses)

After expenses were all paid, I would have been cash flowing around $900 per month. So needless to say, I am biting myself for this one. At the end of the day, however, it has got me eager to learn more about this wonderful world of REI and how I can make something work. Any advice on creative financing, and how to increase my monthly income would be much appreciated!