You should look up the Augusta REIA group and come to those meetings.

At the time, rents were below market at $750 and $820, while comparable units were renting for around $1,000.

Quote from @Emmanuel Ola: On top of what Sasha mentioned, I would tap into friends and family.

You'll quickly learn how to manage investments well, which property types and neighborhoods work best, and more.

I cook my own food, can I bill myself for that and write off all my food costs? 

I regularly attend COIN, and also Tommy Harr's events.

Purchase price: $390,000 Cash invested: $140,000 Buy and hold on a 3 family house.

I have seen loan products that will let you purchase a mixed use property to live in the residential unit, but that is a specific product and you should consult and expert to see the best option for you and your cash on hand.  

I've looked into 6+ including calling and experiencing the customer service myself and have not found one that seems reliable.

I have been asking around to different lenders, both Conventional and DSCR, and have been asking what kind of criteria I need to meet in order to apply for pre-approval confidently.