Hard Money Loans: These are short-term loans from private lenders based on the property's value rather than your credit score.

Policy will not impact the market for a while, even a $25k first-time home buyer credit will need some time to work through the system.

Also, I have helped build my oldest son‘s credit where he can get a loan. 

@Ramada Evans- 1) if buying as a rental and  financing it - your down payment will need to be a min of  15% of the  purchase price   ( so thats either  30,750 at 205K price or 32,850 at the 219K price ...so  not much of a down payment  difference   2) if it appears that there isnt much competition  or interest in theproperty - the lower price might be OK   3)  you might also consider   asking the seller for a seller  credit you can use towards some of your loan costs   4) get pre approved  if you arent already pre approved 

Inspections may cost more upfront, but they can save you from significant headaches and unexpected expenses down the road.Negotiate Hard: Use inspection findings as leverage.If the HVAC is near the end of its life, negotiate a credit for its replacement.If the cast iron plumbing is deteriorating and needs replacement, ask for a credit as well.Sellers often prefer negotiating credits over doing the work themselves.To give you an example: I was once under contract for an old house priced at $170,000.

Having bad tenants is not something you would like to have, thus make sure the tenant has sufficient income, credit, and who they are.

I would consider selling a property to pay off the credit card debt.Maybe your husband can manage the STR listings and potentially do the cleaning.Best of luck

It will also be more expensive than just looking into a line of credit with a local bank. 

Many thanks for any insights & guidance.TimThe only up front fees you should have are an appraisal and credit report.

I have really good income & have good credit -middle score is 768.