@Jason Stofer if you don't have a support structure to tap into... the unhappy answer is that there is no short cut. 

There is a range of DSCR lender underwriting policies for "1st time investors" - some don't allow it, some do with no restrictions, and some in the middle (typically cut max LTV by 5% or so and restrict against anything over 4 units)Also - check out these BiggerPockets articles for a ton of info about DSCR loans:DSCR Loans: What Are They And How To Get The Best Termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/...DSCR Loans: How To Use Pro Strategies To Save More And Make Morehttps://www.biggerpockets.com/...Multifamily DSCR Loans: A New High-Impact Loan Option For Real Estate Investors?

So as investing partners it makes sense because we will both have extra cash at the same time, we partner up to cut the risk in half + we both specialize in a couple things the other does not in terms of being a rental property owner (e.g. running the books + marketing vs actually fixing things).  

There is no short cut. 

Further, I had negotiated 12 months interest reserve; they cut that to 3 months.  

Then, run a rental stress test on the new STR assuming a worst-case scenario—like converting it to a long-term rental with a 30% cut in future rents.

The agent will have access to the biggest platform to get the property sold though, the MLS, so forgoing even a cut rate agent will create more of a loss than the agent fees themselves. 

Quote from @Matthew Kwan: For those who are currently shopping or looking for a loan since rate cuts has been a hot topic.

Upper levels with slanted roof lines cut into living space which is very outdated and much of it becomes deadspace. 

So I'd be doing my best to get the highest possible rent/revenue but without needing or counting on that.What you refer as cut-throat competition exists in every market where you have demand.