4% down possible on long distance rentals?

[Andy Rousch]

My first rental is long distance and I had to put down 20% because I disclosed that I did not plan to live there

My second rental I was able to purchase with 3.5% down because I lived in the house for a few years

Is it possible to say you are moving into a long distance property, but after closing rent it out instead?

Can you purchase like this with renters already in the house?

I know with both purchases my job was contacted to make sure I was still working, I feel like this would be a dead giveaway if I am working at a job halfway across the country, the lender would be able to tell I won’t actually be living in the property

Just looking for any stories or thoughts before I look for my next rental! I hope this post will help others as well with long distance interests!