I am not going to say there is a best lending model, but brokers legally can not be paid as much as IMB's, and I tend to be cheaper in more situation than not when comparing a loan estimate from an actual lender. 

I know Philly at a very high level, but not the details to talk about neighborhoods.

Zillow estimated it 215k.  

Also, what do you mean by “tax free” gain, and did they provide you with estimated appreciation numbers?

Send a letter giving them your/pm's contact and a detailed explanation on how to pay the rent (Helpful with older residents if you are going from check to online billing.

First, request the current rent roll, which details each unit’s rental income, lease terms, and any security deposits.

I have gotten some estimates and that looks like about $30k total if I just use local contractors, If I do some of the work myself and do it as cheap as possible, I might be able to do it for $20k. 

Here's a bit more in detail about how rates are calculated for DSCR loans:1.

Any details on how everyone verifies their military applicants would be great!

As always, devil is in the details.