There are alternative programs out there with reduced cost, but you are typically looking at 20% down. 

Since your goal is to have multiple rental properties, you may want to look into selling your current primary, tax free, and use that money to put it as a downpayment on 3 or 4 rental properties.

There are programs with low to even no seasoning.With cash out refi's you're most likely looking at 75% LTV max for most programs and 80% for rate and term

You can spend from a few thousand to a hundred thousand, depending on the look and feel you are trying to achieve.

Looking for reviews of Onmikey Realty in north TX.I've seen reviews for their PM company, but not investor reviews.Thanks.

I am looking to refinance in the near term either when rates drop to the 6.5% range into a conventional 30 year mortgage or as quickly as I am able into a first lien HELOC to be able to park paychecks into the mortgage and save a significant amount on interest or so it seems.

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

As your portfolio grows, then you can start looking into a property manager. 

@Jesi Young I am looking forward to your blog!

They are not well suited for a novice.You may see auction results that look appealing, but you don't consider things likea.