If you find someone giving you confused looks, seek a mortgage broker that helps investors.I'm not so sure how they would calculate income from short-term rentals.  

Can anyone please explain what 'rent to price ratio' is when you are finding deals?

If so, where would I find good resources to get the best terms and do you think that going with our current lender would give us best terms and be less complicated paperwork?

I’ve seen people buy land thinking water was covered only to find out they had to pay 6 figures to get water re-routes or upgrade pump stations.

If you go this route you better find a way to set yourself apart.

If anything, at least wait a year so you don't pay short-term capital gains on the sale of the property.I need to find some more deals like that here in Chicago...where in Houston was this property?

However, if all they offer is general info, I think you can find most of it yourself in Bigger Pockets and other online sources.

However, I don’t yet have the funds for a down payment on another house, and I’m trying to figure out the best option for where to live while I rent the apartment.Do you have any recommendations for managing this transition or tips on finding a temporary place to stay?

Find her a new boyfriend she can move in with. 

@Anita Z.I recommend finding an accountant who specializes in real estate taxation, tax planning and financial planning.