We recently relocated to Phoenix last summer and I'm starting to look for recommendations for local credit unions here in Phoenix which are trustworthy, low rates, personal touch, easy/simple to work with, etc. 

I do not personally use him based soley on the fact that the firm is virtual.

@Nina Erlandson Personally, I have not heard of Obie Insurance.

However, you can get loans that are based on the performance of the rental and not your personal income and debt.

And always check social media for red flags and I agree with Vince, always meet a person.  

We purchased it off market, as-is, and as it was our personal home, we renovated over time.

It doesn’t cost any different than being under your own personal name.  

This will allow you to remove the person and do the financing on your own.Home Equity Loan/Line of Credit: Since you're looking to access equity, a home equity loan or line of credit (HELOC) can be a good option.

Are you referring to personal losses or other people had losses?

My wife and I have overhauled our personal budget to reflect the 'pay yourself first' approach (allocate in order: income comes in -> invest -> donate -> fixed expenses -> variable expenses -> fun $$).We are looking to see what experienced people generally recommend for a holding tank for that 'invest' allocation while we target our first real estate deal.What financial vehicles have you guys used that works well for this?