Make sure to keep records of your efforts to market the property for rental to demonstrate this to the IRS.

Since Portland is such a tenant friendly city, I’m wondering if there is a loop hole or if I can choose the occupied unit to move into in an effort to rent the other at market value?

In efforts to contact houses that fit our criteria but having issues finding the best service for mailers, post cards, or traditional hand written letters. 

Most people don't do them because they take a lot of time and effort - and hence those who do it are usually rewarded.

Makes me wonder why more of them aren't making proper efforts to educate themselves on value and instead think that a house selling for say $250K is a great deal because it is much cheaper than houses where they are from.

You're really putting in the effort, and it's great to see that drive.

Paying Yourself (10-15% of Income)Rule of Thumb: Pay yourself 10-15% of your net income after expenses.Why: It’s important to reward yourself for your efforts and sustain your personal finances.

Incidentally, what I posted is how home loans work in most countries on the planet, the kiddy-glove 30YF is the exception globally, not the norm.For a new and inexperienced developer, banks don't currently have appetite, so model your numbers on a hard money loan at 12% to 15% (I do not offer these).

@Titus MeisenheimerTaking your real estate investing ventures global may be both thrilling and difficult.

If the goal is to hold and have positive cash flow, I would focus my effort on shortening the loan term and paying it down aggressively instead of refinancing.