We would now like to purchase a single family home and rent out the 4th unit we currently occupy.The issue is, the lendor I spoke with is saying our DTI is maxed out hindering us from qualifying for a SF primary mortgage.

The attorney said that the big issue that hinders a lot of cases is that you have to be able to absolutely prove that the seller knew and intentionally did not disclose.  

You will just want to make sure that there are no HOA rent restrictions that could hinder your ability to rent the townhome when you decide to move out and turn it into a full time rental.Reach out if you have any questions!

Violating the restriction may result in the loss of a license and legal consequences, raising doubts about advisors' ability to act in their client's best interests and hindering unbiased advice and exploration of better investment options.Financial advisors often position themselves as fiduciaries committed to acting in their client's best interests.

Both scenarios hinder a parent the ability leave a financial legacy for their family.As for signing a lease: I say absolutely.

Permits don't need to be expensive or much of a hinderance for small jobs.Assuming a permit should be pulled... 

A lot of sellers are prioritizing a quick close, so this may be a hinderance, but at least I have a better sense of the options now.

So, make sure they know that it may hinder their personal finances if they decide to buy another property or car or whatever their life brings.

Should I set aside a portion of net profit to pay down the principal, or is there a better approach that won't hinder portfolio growth?

If you are just getting started and you want to scale up then it would hinder your debt service ratio.