Maybe paying off credit card debt or other debt on your report to reduce the minimum payments, increasing the downpayment, finding a house that doesnt require HOA or flood insurance (if applicable), etc.

But 3) Try multifamily specific brokers, crexi and loopnet, although 2-4 units maybe scarce. 4) A home equity line of credit is a good source of funds however it will generally make your overall monthly payments higher, so unless a deal is very solidly cashflowing, a HELOC may put you into negative cashflow. 7) Typically electric/gas are paid by the tenant - however this isn't true across the board. 

I have $80k liquid in CDs and savings accounts in the bank and a credit score between 760 - 780.

I just received an application from someone who meets the income requirement (3x rent) but not the credit rating requirement.

What are the best strategies you’ve used to minimize this risk and keep projects on track? 

Currently my credit is under 515, I know I can fix it but need more income and cash.

What are the best strategies you’ve used to minimize this risk and keep projects on track? 

Constantly manage bookkeeping and cash flow to make sure you stay on budget and/or make adjustments when (not if) things come up to stay on track.  

The closing attorney or title co will draw up the closing statement so each party will know exactly what their costs, credits or debits will be in closing the transaction.  

Would be interesting to hear experiences others have had..The expectation for rent being used to help build credit has slowly grown over the years.