My original plan was to find a 4 plex in california buy using fha loan, move out after the first year and generate cash flow and appreciation, but after looking at properties it became clear to me that’s not possible with todays market and interest rates.

The credit thing should not be an issue for many DSCR folks like myself. 80% ltv may be an option, but,I have seldom found the tradeoff in cost/rate to be worth it in the last 12 months. 0% origination is possible, but, as others have said compensation is received in one fashion or another (higher rate, processing fee, etc.).

As I take in as much content as possible from listening to the Rookie Real Estate podcast, I feel drawn to building multi-families and renting them out.

I'm looking at a duplex to BRRRR if possible, but I'm not sure of the area myself.

Cross-Collateralization – A lender may finance the full $160,000 purchase by using your existing properties as additional security, lowering their risk and possibly reducing your down payment. 5.

To be more specific about what i'm looking to do: My 1-2 year goal is to employ the BRRRR strategy with SFHs and Condos by buying distressed / highly undervalued properties that need work (preferably all-cash) in low crime areas with strong rental demand, renovate them within budget (again preferably all-cash) and get them rent ready before refinancing them at the highest ARV possible.

I realize these are already very good terms, but I thought I'd check what is possible.

Yes possibly!

When you specifically mentioned STR experience and the possibility of something with some added "personal value" bells started going off. 

Give them the projected return, but also be honest about possible downsides.2.