Getting a mortgage loan while unemployed

[Kevin L.]

I recently purchased a house with cash and it gives me a rental income of about $2500/month. I want to purchase more properties but I'm afraid I won't be able to get a loan because I'm in school (Phd program). Would my current rental income qualify me to get a mortgage, or do I need a w2? And what if I were to place this property into an LLC and pay myself...does that make any difference?

Is there a certain minimum amount of rental income needed in order to qualify for a mortgage? If I can’t get a mortgage, are there alternative loans that would better suit my situation?

I've also been thinking to move into my rental property (duplex) so I can get a HELOC...but also not sure if I'd qualify with my only income being from one half of the duplex.