Looking for Milwaukee Lenders

[Adam Chmielewski]

Hey BP, 

I am slowly pushing forward on my real estate journey. My current "hurdle" is finding a lender. I say hurdle because it is something that I know is critical but is also very intimidating. 

I have a set criteria that I am looking for so it helps when talking to lenders, but I have not found anyone that offers what I need yet. I am currently looking for a duplex/multifamily under 300k just north of Milwaukee to house hack in. I plan to live there for over a year so I understand FHA is an option. Right now, I can afford about 5% of 300K as a down payment (while also maintaining cash reserves) so I am also looking for a lender that may do a portfolio loan close to those terms. I have less <10% DTI and a decent credit score.

I have called some local banks and all so far have only had arm loans without any other solid options other than the conventional 20% down loans. I was wondering if I am too far off with my expectations? If so, what would be more realistic? I was also wondering if anyone may have recommendations for a lender that handles loans close to what I am looking for in the Greater Milwaukee area? Any feedback is welcome as this is all brand new territory to me.