With fluctuating interest rates, tighter lending criteria, and increased competition for properties, securing the right financing has become a key factor in closing deals and maximizing ROI.Are you exploring creative options like BRRRR, partnerships, or seller financing?

Which do you think will be more competitive, buying from wholesalers or your own referrals?

Build to rent is a great strategy if you are able to utilize some competitive advantages in your market.

As others have noted credit unions are generally competitive on HELOC's. 

Check Furnished Finder, Zillow, as well as AirBnb and VRBO (30+ day stays) to see what sort of competition is in that specific market.

Regionality and competition greatly factors into the cost structure.

@Sam HendricksenMultifamily is super competitive in this area and you have a huge advantage over your "competition" with the fact that you are owner occupying as most deals nowadays hardly cash flow. 

Respond within minutes to each one, as tenants often go with the first responsive option.Ensure you have high-quality photos that make your property stand out against the competition.

Obviously I want to keep my costs low but still want to spring for amenities that would give me a competitive edge compared to other rentals.

That means that there is now competition between hosts and you have to give people a reason to book your unit over another hosts.