If these groups are significant, it suggests there’s pent-up demand that could enter the market when one of two things happen:Rates Drop - Rates fall to levels that allow more buyers to qualify for the homes they want.Buyer Expectations Shift - Buyers realize that 5% rates aren’t coming back soon and decide to move forward.Based on the increase in activity I saw in Sept and Oct in my business, when rates hit low 6s, I'd say my market has plenty of pent-up demand. 

As long as the property generates enough cash flow, you may qualify based on the asset alone.Another route is to explore portfolio loans from local banks or credit unions.

You might want to consider doing a house hack to help you qualify for more.

For the financial side they hire third year financial analysts (3 years removed from college) because they cost one quarter of what a qualified employee would cost.  

Quote from @Rick Im: Quote from @Ashish Acharya: @Rick Im Inspection fees for unsuccessful deals and mileage for property viewings before acquiring your first rental CANNOT qualify as start-up expenses.

If you can't qualify for a Heloc, maybe you will not be able to get financing for the apartment purchase.

So I'm seeing units being held back for longer... sometimes months to find a qualified bulletproof applicant.

I highly recommend a well-qualified REALTOR who works with investors and knows how to help you best.7.

@Chris Kay beleive you can do DSR loans without a job as they qualify the property, not the borrower.You'd still need 20-25% down though.That's where you have a decision:- Pay down the mortgage, setting yourself up for a future refinance to free up your VA Entitlement.OR- Save up for your next acquisition.Only YOU can make that decision as you have to be comfortable with the increasing debt-load risk and the additional time to manage everything.

Remove those and the Net S8 Rent will be market rent.Typically, the only way to get more than market rent is by buying in Class D areas and hoping a S8 tenant will live there instead of a Class C area.Keep in Mind: TENANTS QUALIFY FOR SECTION 8 FOR A REASON!