Our only debts are a 2.875% mortgage with a balance of $124k only paying $897/month on an appraised value of $325k, daily driver car of $370/month, and use a credit card for monthly expenses, but pay the balance off with every pay check.

They can choose to leave and you can both sign an agreement to terminate the tenancy, or, you are going to file for eviction and it will probably wreck their credit. 

In general tenants with a credit score worth preserving pay all that is owed.

These markets often have strong population and job growth and strong rental demand.But the reality is that even in more affordable markets like Columbus, you'll need about $50k-60k household income just to qualify for a conventional investment property loan (this assumes good credit and reasonable debt).

It’s worth exploring credit unions or lenders specializing in non-W-2 borrowers.

Credit unions or smaller regional banks might be a better fit.

makes sense. so i actually did a 2-1 buydown FHA, i have a 800 credit score and locked in a 5.875% in today's market which is pretty damn good IMO... so the first year ill be at a 3.875% with about a $2350 monthly payment including prop tax/pmi/morg insurance/home owners insurance. lease is locked in for a year at $1400 a month which makes me only have to pocket roughly $1000. the way i see it, its cheaper than rent or mortgages in today's world!...

Will bank credit still be around (at what terms)?

Opportunity Zone Tax Credits helped fuel more investments in rural and under-served markets where capital is needed, but not much is available.

Count on the rate to be at least 1% higher than where you'd be for a primary residence, and to maybe even cost a little in points depending on the program, your credit scores, etc.Happy to help you think on this more if you want to setup a call.