Quote from @Brad Kremer: Hi everyone,I own a cash-flowing duplex in Austin, TX, that I bought 8 years ago when rates were considerably lower than they are today.

In this case, you can use Rental Income from the units that you will not be living in and that income can count to help you qualify.FHA rates are going to be lower than conventional for you almost always, but FHA does have a 1.75% funding fee. 

.- I found one lady online give an independent review, and as I said she was lower income, didn't say anything bad, and put the blame on herself.

Working with a mortgage broker that specializes in DSCR loans will help you find better rates and programs such as lower DSCR ratios such as a DSCR 1 ratio for better terms versus needing a 1.2 or 1.25 DSCR ratio (more on that below).

These neighborhoods seem to fit my goals, especially with their lower crime rates and potential for growth.Do you think these are solid options, or would you recommend other neighborhoods in the Philadelphia area based on the price range and focus on appreciation?

I see this home and what you paid and while it's not at all a bad price, I've seen investors offering that size in Palm Bay for as much as $15-25k lower.

Get a nice downpayment (lower LTV better)Hope this helps

It's also nice that they have their own recommended insurer, those rates are much lower then what I would pay up in the northeast. 

I was reading up about it, and saw that the cons of oil heating include needing to top up the oil supply, lower efficiency (than gas and electric), and potential leaking of tanks leading to environmental issues.Is anyone familiar with oil heated homes?

., CA) have annual franchise taxes ($800+), while others have lower or no renewal fees.