Tom, most HMLers will want you to have some "skin in the game" so get ready to bring some cash to the table.

Yep, they want skin in the game.If your deal is super - ultra solid, you can get better terms.

Nothing is in effect until they have skin in the game.Something else to think about: Why is the second applicant willing to pay $200 more in rent?

Most lenders like to see you have some "skin in the game" , so may need a down payment and some closing costs at the very least - however , there are still opportunities to wholesale or bird dog which does not require down payment money but may be a lot more difficult without a marketing budget.

Experienced wholesalers are a great asset, but watch out for purported wholesalers who just paid for a course, have no skin in the game and have no real knowledge of the industry.

I am intrigued by the idea of $0 out of pocket purchases as this would get me some skin in the game quicker than paying off my debt and rebuilding my savings, all while adding the expense of a new baby!

I know there are a million ways to skin a cat (sorry if you're a cat lover) but I am new to real estate and would love experienced advice.Thank you for your time and sorry for the lengthy post.Faithfully,Scott

Sometimes dealing with tenants that have little/no "skin in the game". 

You have to have thick skin.

With that said it does take a special kind of person to cope with the demands of these markets, it takes a very tough skin.