Even though I had a full size W/D on site, I still used this method.....

So I'm strongly considering adding a handful of these to my buy & hold portfolio.I understand that there's no "risk-free" method to acquiring these properties subto, but have any of you had success over the long-term acquiring properties with VA loans attached?

Post on Craigslist seems like another 'guru' but I cannot put my finger on it, he seems to be following Cherif method, not sure what to make of it.

That method will increase your ROE significantly more.Also read the BP book on BRRRR investing.

I have used several methods that have been quite fruitful over many years. 

I don't plan on sticking to one method of investing however I do realize that some investors start with Single family and grow into multi-family.

there are of course more creative strategies to reduce that up front outlay, or recoup your capital, like, say, the BRRRR method. but they are time and energy intensive and certainly not hands-off. 

We have done tons of non-occupied flips too (fast method).

That's not everyone - some legitimate players may just be short on cash because of projects (I've been there) - but it is a lot of people. 

Additionally, they managed to refinance while the rates were at historical lows (and still somehow cashflow negative ik 😭), so any loan methods that involve changing those rates are not ideal.