What documents do they require, what credit scores do they allow, how do they verify previous rental history, etc.?

Each lender will be willing to provide a ballpark rate quote with some simple info such as FICO score, property type, location, term, and desired LTV.

Look for a local credit union that can offer a cash-out refinance once the work is done, ideally with minimal seasoning.

I can put up with a 1-hour work commute or a little more if it means having a house in a decently safe area.Other Info:Credit Score: 700s (due to student loan payments)Monthly Income: $4600Work Location: I commute to Northern Virginia and D.CGuys, I could really use your help or recommendations on what you would do if you were in my situation:Location: I'm thinking somewhere in PG County MD due to my commute, like Hyattsville MD.

Denver Union Station Project (Colorado): The city exchanged several smaller parcels of land with a private developer, who in turn constructed a mixed-use development that included retail, office space, and residential units.

Whether bank or credit union - either will work. 

What documents do they require, what credit scores do they allow, how do they verify previous rental history, etc.?

So, you want to watch tenant credit scores, see the default chart below: FICO Score Pct of Population Default Probability 800 or more 13.00% 1.00% 750-799 27.00% 1.00% 700-749 18.00% 4.40% 650-699 15.00% 8.90% 600-649 12.00% 15.80% 550-599 8.00% 22.50% 500-549 5.00% 28.40% Less than 499 2.00% 41.00% PROPERTY VALUES: What are buyers willing to pay for a property? 

Quote from @Divya Sosa: Hello,I had a unit up for rental (a townhome) and received an application from Zillow which showed that she has no criminal history and credit score was good as well.

Plus no matter what I did I couldn’t get my credit score above the high 600 range.