Once you do decide to procure your first rental, definitely lean on the BiggerPockets community as a resource; I'll also say that it could be worth considering a shot at a software solution built for DIY landlords (1 - 15 units) to bring some automation to the rental management process (just to make things much much easier for you)!

I went through the 203k process on my first home purchase, and I'll be honest, it was trying.Freddie Mac just came out with a new product called the "Choice Renovation Loan":https://freddiemac.gcs-web.com/news-releases/news-release-details/freddie-mac-announces-choicerenovation-latest-solution-financingand I've heard that it's less complicated than 203k.

I quit buying the high priced shampoos and now I just buy Fabuloso and Totally Awesome cleaning solution. 

It could be worth considering a shot at an actual software solution built for DIY landlords (1 - 15 units); one that helps you to automate your own rental process (ie. compared to other tools, one that helps you to actually get it listed on 10+ major listing sites, allows you to schedule showings, provides you with super thorough tenant screening options, online digital leases which can be customized and help you by breaking out those fees, automated maintenance tracking, and fast rent collection which also offers your tenants the ability to report their positive on-time payments to the major credit bureaus; just another positive reinforcement/added incentive to get them to make those payments on time).

I’ve never used one, nor can recommend a good/bad one, but it might be another solution to get the loan you need.

203K is a much better solution than hard money.

Solution was to "snooze" the listings during application and refi process.

Now becoming heartless seems to be the solution if she stops paying.

Sounds like a great a solution, but I'm skeptical.

I'm asking how others are getting around it, not saying there's no ways around it but is the only solution to keep doing the BRRRR method until your W-2 is sufficient from the real estate business to where you don't need a job?