Considering your goal of house hacking a duplex, while FHA loans are common for first-timers, there are alternative financing options to explore:Conventional Loans: Need more credit and down payment, but offer flexibility. 203K Loans: Ideal for fixer-upper duplexes, bundling purchase and renovation costs.VA Loans: Great for vets—no down payment, competitive rates, and no mortgage insurance.Portfolio Loans: Private lenders, good for unconventional income or credit histories.Hard Money Loans: Quick, high-interest, good for investments or major renovations.With $30,000, mix it up—use it for a down payment, maybe pair with a conventional or FHA loan.

For example, offer landlords a tax credit for new units brought to inventory in ___ area.

Cash or credit to be able to close on the property purchase YOURSELF.  

Be wary of any up front fees charged outside of a credit report fee and apprisal. 

Also, your credit rating is typically secondary in the underwriting decisions of a hard money loan.

I like to use a community bank or a credit union. 

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

Hi,  Does anyone have experience either using Bilt Credit card to pay rent or collect rent?

I also found a small local community credit union who will write first position HELOCs.  

As for the line of credit, that being in your name is OK.