Quote from @Brendan Jones: For the homes, and or properties that you will use as a primary or a rental property one big thing I look for is infrastructure in the area, extrinsic value (I.e. hospitals in the area, schools, and job market), and the last thing is creature comforts for people (I.e. is a store to get groceries 1 hour away or 2 minutes away).

Based on the tenor of your posts, I've got to ask - do you have your primary residence squared away?

It will be a byproduct of investing, not the primary purpose.

That’s your primary job as a landlord.

If so you may have some full doc options which have the best rates typically and terms.Like others have mentioned you have DSCR loans too but this only allows you to purchase non owner occupied properties (not primary residence or second home occupancy type properties).

The Taxable Value is uncapped and equated to the SEV upon a sale or other transfer of property ownership, with limited exceptions.Homestead versus Non-Homestead Millage RatesCounties & cities in Michigan are allowed to set their own millage rates, with one restriction – a primary residence (Homestead) is exempt from up to 18 mills of school taxes on their Homestead property.

As has been mentioned, try to find a way to keep as your primary for 2 years, and all gains are tax free at the sale.

Why couldn't the officers in RAD obtain financing for their primary home from traditional lending sources?

If it's not a gift, more documentation and explanation will be needed (are they also owners, is there a loan, etc). 

While I am always looking for off-market, as an agent with access to MLS, that's my primary source of looking for deals right now.