So each option has its specific pros and cons but since I am still extremely new and still learning I can't quite decide which option is best.

Reach out with any other specific questions. - Chris Kersey 

HELOCs are specifically helpful in this case so long as you are consistent with paying it back in a timely manner for the next transaction.

So, the first question they usually ask a PMC is about fees - instead of asking about services and HOW those services are executed.EXAMPLE: PMC states they will handle tenant screening – what does that specifically mean?

Once you move in, refinancing into a lower-rate owner-occupied loan could be beneficial, but again, your 1099 income history will play a role.Lender-Specific Guidelines – Some lenders might have clauses about intent to occupy, so make sure there’s nothing in your loan docs that could create an issue down the road.

But if you can find the property which can qualify as rural, then you can finance.As an example, farm labor housing is multifamily and there are specific programs inside the USDA portfolio which target those types of properties.

Any insight on this specific market or recommendations for particular zips or neighborhoods with strong potential?

DSCR loans specifically can be pretty FICO score sensitive. 

Hi Brad,It looks like you had lots of great answers already, but I wanted to chime in with my two cents.Using Traditional IRA funds for a down payment on a single-family home (SFH) investment property can be tricky because the IRS has specific rules regarding retirement accounts and real estate investments.

Most get cornered into purchasing specific property types because its what their resources allow.