@Ko KashiwagiHi Ko,I hope to answer the question you are asking.I did qualify for the Triplex solely based on my W-2 which has since gone up a bit.Because I live in it, but the other 2 units are tented, I was able to depreciate 2/3 of all CapEx and OpEx (units are equal in size).The rental income covers about 81% of my monthly mortgage payment.One lender has told me, they need a 2-year rental income history on my taxes.

Insurance would cover it, I would pay the deductible, and no assets would be lost.If you are in an area like San Diego where people are more likely to sue, a judge is more likely to find you guilty, and the payout is expected to be higher, you may consider an umbrella insurance policy.

Ask about the maintenance history.Units: Visit as many individual units as possible to assess their condition and note any necessary repairs or updates.Structural Issues: Be vigilant about signs of water damage, mold, or pests, which could indicate larger problems.Safety Compliance: Verify that the property meets all local safety and building codes, including fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency exits.Financial and Operational AspectsRent Roll: Request a detailed rent roll to understand current rents, lease terms, and tenant occupancy.Expenses: Get a breakdown of all operating expenses, including utilities, maintenance, insurance, property management fees, and taxes.Income Verification: Ask for historical income statements (preferably 12 months or more) to verify the revenue.Vacancy Rates: Inquire about the historical and current vacancy rates and how they compare to the market average.Tenant Profile: Understand the tenant mix, including residential versus commercial tenants, lease lengths, and tenant turnover rates.Property Management: Find out if the property is currently managed by a professional management company and if you will retain or replace them.Legal and ComplianceZoning Laws: Ensure the property complies with current zoning laws and inquire about any zoning changes that may affect the property.Rent Control: Determine if the property is subject to rent control or other regulations that could impact income.Permits and Licenses: Check that all necessary permits and licenses are up to date.Value-Add PotentialRenovation Opportunities: Identify areas where you could add value through renovations or upgrades.Rent Increases: Assess the potential for increasing rents based on market rates and property improvements.Additional Income: Explore opportunities for additional income streams, such as laundry facilities, parking fees, or storage rentals.Environmental ConsiderationsEnvironmental Hazards: Check for any environmental issues like asbestos, lead paint, or underground storage tanks.Flood Zones: Verify if the property is in a flood zone and the implications for insurance and risk.Questions to Ask the SellerReason for Selling: Understand the seller’s motivation to gauge the urgency and possible negotiation points.Recent Repairs and Improvements: Ask about any recent capital expenditures and future planned repairs.Tenant Relations: Inquire about the relationship with tenants and any ongoing disputes or issues.Due DiligenceProfessional Inspection: Hire a professional inspector to conduct a thorough examination of the property.Appraisal: Obtain an independent appraisal to verify the property’s market value.Legal Review: Have a real estate attorney review all contracts, leases, and legal documents related to the property.By covering these aspects, you’ll be in a stronger position to make an informed decision about your potential investment.

If you haven't already, consider looking into whether or not your fiancé would have been covered under the Servicemember's Civil Relief Act (SCRA) https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/appj/scra/In certain instances, things like high interest credit cards and certain loans would be capped at 6% APR, with any overages/fees being FORGIVEN and not just deferred. 

Cover your bases!

There is so much to cover you kinda need to drill down for us.First thing I would do is check VRBO and AirBNB and see what is renting in the immediate vicinity of where you are looking.

The lender will want to see that the income generated by the property can cover the monthly principal, interest, taxes, insurance and HOA (if applicable).

(We also cover Somerset and Middlesex County).

It is not "funny money".Just for giggles:Mortgage fraud is covered under the 2009 FERA (Fraud Enforcement and Recover Act).

It is quite expensive ($160) BUT it covers theft, burglary all that stuff.