STRs sound like too much work to me.Portfolio income = stock dividends, interest income (from banks, credit union etc), Master Limited Partnerships (Form K-1), Business Development Companies (Form 1099), bonds, interest earned from investing in a real estate debt fund, interest earned from being a private lender

Here’s a rundown of my current situation:- Own an S-Corp (landscaping) generating 70k a year- 160k in available cash funds- Credit score around 720- Zero debt- Own one property valued at 365k, 30% equity- Property is rented by the room generating $400 a month after mortgage and taxes- Additional 590sqft house is being built in rear of property for 60k.

I paid off all debts with the exception of my home; and now i feel i am ready to start in real estate.

Your biggest issue with 5 bedrooms is that 50% of your income is going towards the mortgage, I do not believe banks would even lend to you with a DTI above 40-45 (mortgage + other debts).

If you aren't a cash buyer, you don't want to lead with fake cash like a lot of buyers do.

Some loans like DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans are based on how the property operates as a rental (income, expenses, etc). 4.

My guess was that the floor wasn't leveled in certain areas leading to a chain reaction of splitting

If you've been looking to buy, the next few months leading up the election is the perfect time, in my opinion. 

They do say they have a one time fee for debt collection and I suppose negative reporting with a 30 day delay and dispute process. 

After purchase, you can do a cash-out refi of 75% of the appraised value to free up your cash again, and repeat.There's also DSCR (debt service coverage ratio) loans.