I've spent a decent amount of time playing around on the website and will probably go ahead and buy the premium version. 

That should play a role in investors buying decisions.

I like how you point out the "technical" elements at play by mentioning the demand for MBS versus treasuries. 

Deposit AmountThose are the 4 items you have to play with that do the negotiating. 

I can justify any price (and some high fee syndicators are still doing so), if I just play with assumptions, prepay and buy down my interest rate, and hope that sub-5% cap rates will be returning in the next few years.But if you know your market and market cycle, have an idea where interest rates may be going (this is an educated guess for all of us), and then have your assumptions, you can certainly have the conversations you reference with brokers and see what their take is on pricing and if it is worth writing.Finally, I have said this before and will continue to say it, whether we are talking single family homes or 400 unit apartment complexes, off-market purchases do not make something a deal.  

We use and are happy with Avail as a lease management platform for when we get a FF renter, but it doesn't play well with the OTA booking platforms (which are becoming greater sources of residents for us).

This long-term play has less risk for someone just starting out.

Its like asking whats a better career for someone who you know nothing about and they say they want to play in the NBA but you learn they are 4 feet tall.

Nothing wrong with that - it kinda “plays it safe”.  

It is important to keep in mind that DSCR is just one factor that lenders consider when evaluating a loan application, and other factors such as property condition, location, and market conditions also play a role.It is also a good idea to consult with a financial advisor or loan officer to get a better understanding of the loan requirements and to get an idea of how your investment property will be evaluated by lenders.Feel free to reach out if you need more feedback, happy to help.