Forewarning: This is going to be long and detailed.How this started:When we were young, we would buy a house that was livable, but in need of rehabbing, move into it (which allowed us to get a low interest residential mortgage), then rehab it, using contractors for what we couldn’t do ourselves.

Down payments on DSCR purchases can be as low as 15% right now, and as you noted, they don’t impact your DTI.

The median home price is also very low nationwide which creates a low barrier to entry.

Lots are just drawn to the low purchase prices, and buy based solely on price. 

I believe the one benefits most besides the politicians are those low quality tenants that are hard on units, pay late, rough on the neighbors, etc.

"Master Group", "Winners Circle", or whatever - where they will promise to hold your hand, find you deals, find you money, find you whatever you need - all for the low low price of (in my case) $45,000 for a 2 year membership.  

While it’s tempting to see the low-interest, self-repayment setup as a win, the key question to ask is whether the opportunity cost justifies the move.

This is all indicative of a low interest rate environment. 

While you might find a lender offering low down payment options, you'll still need cash reserves for repairs, maintenance, emergency fund (ideally 3-6 months of expenses), etc.

@Rishika Garimella I am a local home inspector and investor in the area. i think Austin is a sleeping giant right now. the rates are really scaring away buyers. but since competition is so low right now, its a great time to snag some property while its not being ripped apart by investors. i think the hutto manor area is a great choice, once that freeway opens up that connects taylor to round rock, it will definitely become a point of interest.