I've included an example below to help illustrate this.So different lenders have different rates (which do vary even for DSCR loans) but these are factors they all consider.See example below:DSCR < 1Principal + Interest = $1,700Taxes = $350, Insurance = $100, Association Dues = $50Total PITIA = $2200Rent = $2000DSCR = Rent/PITIA = 2000/2200 = 0.91Since the DSCR is 0.91, we know the expenses are greater than the income of the property.DSCR >1Principal + Interest = $1,500Taxes = $250, Insurance = $100, Association Dues = $25Total PITIA = $1875 Rent = $2300DSCR = Rent/PITIA = 2300/1875 = 1.23If a purchase, you also generally need reserves / savings to show you have 3-6 month payments of PITIA (principal / interest (mortgage payment), property taxes and insurance and HOA (if applicable).

You can also write it off as a business expense and there could be additional tax benefits for energy efficient home improvements.  

And a property manager is expensive and profit margins on rentals are fairly small.

That said, expect to deal with a fair amount of fluff leads.The two best strategies I’ve found are inbound methods: direct mail and Google Ads.Direct mail can be expensive, but it can also yield highly discounted properties.Google Ads, on the other hand, doesn’t require data extraction like calls, direct mail, or texting.

Since they have to also eat, pay utility bills and other expenses. 

Can I set up my account with my property manager in my LLC name so that all income and expenses go through the partnership even if the LLC doesn't own the rental? 

Reduce local building expenses, fees, encourage investments where people want to be.

It also seemed like I was working for the banks, as that was my biggest expense every month. 

We were sucked into another program which I refer to as an expensive lesson at best. 

Cash flow will provide you with a steady income and a safety net for any unexpected expenses, which is especially important when starting out.