He will be getting orders (active duty military) and will need to move in May of 2024 to Texas.  

Look in locations that are near a university, military base, refinery, etc.

The only known situations where I was ever required to pay a loan fee upfront before funding is with my commercial lenders (banks, credit unions, etc.) on our 5+ units.

@Vincent GilliamI would suggest speaking to local banks, and credit unions.

There are some exceptions that allow for pro-ration such as military orders and change in job location.1031 exchange isn't possible since thats only for investment property. 

Between people relocating here, retiring here or transferring here with the military demand for MTR is solid. 

I picked a location that is nearly economy-proof since it predominantly houses military families.

My wife and I are both military stationed out of the area but have plenty of family and friends in Tampa helping with everything I need!

I don't think it's too unrealistic in the SD market to rent a room for around 1,000 dollars given the shortage of real estate and knowing as a service member myself that the military pays out 1,900 a month for housing allowance.

Do you belong to a credit union or have a 401k plan you can borrow from?