I like this train of thought and think you should aim for option 3: conventional loan + lower downpayment (perhaps even lower than 10%).

Will do a separate topic on going through a Flood.

That said, my main question is, can you recommend a good mortgage brokerage company that offers all the training points you outlined in your post?

Minimizing CostsHolding a real estate license comes with ongoing costs, such as licensing fees, MLS access, and association memberships.

@Mike Grudzien Happy to help on an DSCR and we also help train brokers in this program so they can speak on & guide better on it, Great product to have.

Here’s the situation (personal details removed):The tenant reached out explaining that they’re going through financial difficulties due to an ongoing divorce and lack of child support.

We feel this encourages/trains good payment behavior:)We have several MoveIn Specials owners can approve like, free TV, Washer or Dryer (used), etc.Our main goal with MoveIn Specials is to stand out from our competition. - Just lowering the rent really doesn't do that.

I think too many people get into this and struggle for too long before realizing that they not been properly trained and potentially could have dramatically shortened the learning curve.   

If you want to have ongoing relationships with people you have to create some value in the transaction.

The appealing aspect here is the ongoing population growth and other economic factors.