Gave him 10 months free space rent and paid for all his utility hookups. 

Even something as simple as utilizing ChatGPT to speed up certain processes such as asking for generalized information on a market's demographics and immigration patterns can be useful and save a lot of time.

We decided I’d utilize an FHA loan to buy my first property.

Plus the challenge with mid term is you are generally on the hook for things like internet, utilities, etc.

Implementing water-saving initiatives is a smart way to reduce utility costs.

They were fine with my score (about 740), but have issue with the percentage of personal credit I am utilizing, so that discussion also petered out.Apparently, I have a lending profile right now, that is not attractive to mainstream lending programs.Any advice?

Utilizing the VA loan is a good first step in terms of investing.

My goal, over the next five years, is to utilize real estate in lieu of my current hourly consulting income, by building a portfolio of rentals.  

Alternatively, once you have a full time job (or an employment contract), you should be able to qualify for a loan and utilize a Down Payment Assistance program.

Need more information surrounding why your current lender is suggesting they cannot utilize the rental income on your investment property.