@Abby H.Shifting from house hacking to small multifamily is a great way to scale, and securing a JV partner is all about networking, credibility, and structuring a win-win deal.

. - $6k/ month is our freedom number from a W2- Buy & Hold MFH is our plan (turnkey with PM in place)- This quad was built in 2024 and we're able to secure a 3.75% 10 year rateHow's this deal looking or would it make more sense to go another route?

Should we pursue a "cheap" rental in order to build rental history in the hopes of securing DSCR loans down the road? 

Of course the rate is higher with 15% down, but it helps investors get that property secured with less out of pocket.Happy to help if there's anything you need.

Anyone over 18 fills out has to furnish their social security and driver's license numbers, and pays a fee for a credit / background check.

The building next to yours looks much nicer and has THREE security vehicles parked in front.

Could any of you guide me on what I should do initially to secure financing?

I'd say start the process of securing your HELOC if you havn't done so and spend time analyzing deals and determining what type of investor you are looking to be. 

But the bank still treats it as a secured debt.

I got the Discover It Secured card in high school and used that to build up my credit.