Are they stable?

My husband has stable job for over 10 years, but makes about 30% more doing side jobs under the table.

I have been interested in buy and hold properties for some time now, but have been reluctant due to the feeling of not being in a stable location. 

I have a lot to learn.My goal:  to be a financially stable artist (ideally financially independent-ish).   

Yes you're still going to need 2 years of stable w2 income.However... since you were a college student and just got a job, some banks will allow that as long as you can prove that you are now working.Ask your bank if that will work for you!

What type of unit configuration is more stable for an investor in an apartment complex.

So here's my question:  Do rents tend to act more "rationally" (for lack of a better word) than home price appreciation and therefore rental markets are in general more stable and predictable?  

I'm doing rehabbing of investment deals & rentals 7-days a week, not even factoring in my wholesaling, and those houses "fly off the shelf".

You can explain up front you hae had some credit issues and that is why you have moved to a more stable job.

Long term stable financing will help reduce your risk and give you time to learn the business.Hope this helps.