For reference I own exactly one handful (5) SFH  rentals in my hometown, all have been purchased in the last 4 years.1) buying at a discount is MY preferred way to reduce risk.

expensive properties don't usually cash flow as well as mid-range properties unless you're talking about multi family.I was referring to MFH.

Quote from @Jaycee Greene: If you go the conventional/DSCR route, these are considered "Commercial" loans and the properties are referred to as "Non Owner-Occupied" and, as such, the cash flow of the property is most important, and your DTI is not generally included in the underwriting.

Do you know what they are referring to with the 5 year return or earlier where they talk about returning your initial investment?

Does anyone have specific reference that gives clarity to this situation?

The owner of the property I purchased is litigious in that they have filed a number of frivolous law suits in reference to the property. 

Also, I've been asking most people I talk with for references and keep getting in contact with more people, all of whom have been happy to chat for a few minutes.

I believe these are the ones you are referring to.

I have a decent amount of property managers that I really trust and can refer you to them! 

@Jason Mayer no, but I have an agent that has a few Section 8s himself who I refer my clients to for Denver/Colorado Springs.