That being said, IRRRLs are the easiest refinances youll ever do.

Easiest thing is to align with those people.

The number crunching is probably the easiest part, whereas the networking and deal sourcing are all skills I'd need practice with.

One of the easiest things that you can do to "talk" to the algorithm is search your property and heart it. 

If those check the boxes, it's probably the easiest loan you will encounter. 

Sounds like DSCR as mentioned already would be the easiest way for that and wouldn't see any issues with owning/renting.

Yep for one especially in the early stages a hard credit pull would not be useful, just have them do soft checks for the time being and opt out of credit solicitation: www.optoutprescreen.com I could be biased... that said typically working with one lender than can help regardless of where you're looking and having a relationship with that will provide the easiest and most cost effective route long term. 

So most agents are only putting about half of that $12k in their pocket, and out of that $6k they have to cover all of their operating expenses: licensing fees, MLS/ Realtor Association fees, continuing education classes to stay compliant with licensing requirements, monthly "desk" fees/ technology fees to their brokerage, health insurance for themselves and their family, errors and omissions insurance (required), marketing, car, car insurance, gas, clothes, computer/ software, cell phone, closing gifts, signs, photography, staging if they offer that, etc.

Quote from @Marc Shin: What's the best / easiest way to find comps on a property?   

The easiest way to find your reviews is through the VRBO app.