We are hoping to retire as landlords with cash flow that will sustain a comfortable retirement.

You as the lender can go up to 50% DTI (any resonable number) and set your own reserves (If you even require reserves for an occupant).  

Although the initial uptake is slow (I'd recommend budgeting in some advertising), it ends up being a really sustainable product if there's ways to build/park the tiny houses near entertainment districts (i.e.

resonates with me.

It is easier, more sustainable, and better regarded way to get started in IMHO ... can be more profitable too if you are good.

And when it comes to multifamily i would not count on appreciation for the bail out; you want to be setup so it can comfortable sustain itself, rain, or shine.:)I was looking at a duplex for sale in Baltimore online. 40K purchase, 10K work (they said 5k) and $750X2 in rent.

If the property sustains uninsured damage, the buyer may lose incentive to pay, ask you to accept less money, or even abandon the property, again leading to foreclosure.

My advice would be to take a look at the economic fundamentals driving your market, do they point towards sustained growth?

QUESTION 2: If so, why and what are the startup and sustaining fees for this?

Prices going up due to a further expansion of credit (unsustainable) I don't like, prices going up because of real wage growth (sustainable) I do like...I don't think anyone would argue prices are/have gone up due to the later.