I gives them a reason to speak with you and you a reason to speak with them.....about real estate.Want bonus points.....wear it upside-down.

The longer it stays in the same taxpayer name before changing it, the better.I would also suggest you speak to your CPA before making any decisions.

Ask to speak with some of their current owners and current/former tenants.

To me that is negative cash-flow, because I include hard and soft expenses. 

The fact that you had some negative reviews is certainly hurting you.So you have 4.46 stars and 12 reviews.

Keep searching for lenders because you're speaking to the wrong ones. 

For this deal to work under those conditions, the purchase price would need to be closer to $179k.With your original assumptions 249k, the deal is marginally acceptable but not great, given the negative cash flow in the early years.

If you're not sure of you preferred direction with your next property I would invest in understanding investing more thoroughly and read 5-10 books as well as speak to other experienced investors.

Financing OptionsParent Loan Options: Consider home equity loans, investment property mortgages, or co-signing a loan.Tax Implications: Speak with a financial advisor about potential deductions and capital gains.Rental Income Potential: Explore the option of renting out extra rooms to offset costs.5.

Speaking of appraisals.