They are farily easy and do nto require much to get started and the Max LTV is going to be 75% but I have seen some exceptions to 80%.Rates are subject to a few thing like loan amount, property type, number of units, credit score and downpayment.DSCR allows you to purchase with No employment and No tax returns so its a little easier. 

@Blake KirbyHere's an excerpt from the Redfin article you referenced:"The metro area with the highest risk of a real estate dip during a recession is Riverside, California, with an overall score of 72.8 percent, followed by Phoenix (69.8%) and Miami (69.5%).

780 or higher should get you the best rates/terms available, no difference than 820 score.

Wife and I both have an 800 credit score and plenty of income with a 19% DTI ratio. 2) Do you recommend that as a first timer I actually do go with a higher down payment product as I learn?

I usually work with my local credit union where I have developed a relationship over the years.

DSCR loans are based off of down payment, credit score and either actual or market rents so it helps to supercharge an investor's real estate goals and net worth.

As for lenders, look for local banks or credit unions that understand the value-add you’re creating in each property.

It gets tough using wealth given away in the scoring because giving it away ends achieving any additional return on that wealth.

One pssible workaround might be exploring smaller community banks or credit unions.

For anything less than that with a traditional bank or credit union, you'd likely be looking at a portfolio product (the bank/CU will hold your loan and not sell it on the secondary market).