Before going the conventional route

[Nzinga Hart]

I am going through home showings now on multifamily properties in Portage County, OH. Since this will be my first investment property I am going through Ohio's first time home buyer program. The only stipulation with this is I would have to occupy the home I intend on buying. I have good credit - well over 700, so I was wondering if perhaps I should purchase houses through pursuing a line of credit, this way I can cover repairs if needed too. Before I make this real commitment to a load of debt I was wondering what may be the most valuable point of entry financially?

Any advice?