Question on financing a owner occupied property turned into LTR

[Justin Kerstetter]

I am a disabled veteran and my wife and I purchased a SFR with intent of turning it into a LTR this coming April. At that time we will have occupied the home for 1 year. I used my VA loan to purchase the home for $270K in Northern CA. I know that the loan limit in Shasta County which is where I am located is $548,250 starting 2021. My question is if we are planning on repeating this process what would be the best plan of action to take? Should we use the remaining $278,250 of my VA benefit for the next property?

When we go to purchase the third property would we need to refinance the first into a FHA in order to purchase a third? If yes would we need to put %20 down on the first property since it is no longer owner occupied.

I know investors use the owner occupied strategy to purchase properties, but I am a little confused as to how the best way to execute it is. Especially since I am elegible for the VA loan. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.