Seller financing is also quite attractive, though I guess there are few of these kinds of deals available. 

Our efficient project management and marketing highlighted the home’s transformation, attracting buyers quickly.

If the interest rate is still a barrier, you could explore adjusting your deal structure or negotiating with the seller to see if there is any flexibility on the price or terms to make the deal more attractive for buyers.Overall, while the interest rate may make it more challenging, it’s not impossible to work through.

We attract high quality tenants. 

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?

Trust me, I have been there.I suggest you try to House hack in cities that you are already familiar with and have some connection with.Hire a great investor agent in that market and ask them all your questions and concerns.That I believe is the best way to get personalized advice tailored to your goals and lifestyle.You giving out Cleeveland and Toledo on your post will only attract biased opinions and advise.Only you know what you truly like, want, and can deal with.As Nicolas said, read this post and comments and hope that gives you a new perspective. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1215726-break...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...Goodluck and keep us posted.

Focus on buying properties in good locations that will attract high value tenants.

Anyone serious about selling their house will be instantly attracted tho this website because it is different than all the standard sites out there, it has personality, and character and it looks amazing.

While this is indirect, a less experienced sponsor is not going to be able to attract capital like a seasoned sponsor, regardless of securities being exempt or not.  

With that being said, if you're comfortable with a long term hold, San Diego and especially coastal, will always be attractive imo.