When you go to a Bank or Credit Union, they can only offer you what products that bank or credit union offer. 

I’m considering going back to work either for myself again or joking the carpenters union.

I greatly respect electricians; my dad was in the union out of Local 6. 

I’d suggest starting with local credit unions or community banks—they’re often more flexible with investment properties.

For VA loans, here are some solid options:Veterans United (veteransunited.com)Navy Federal Credit Union (navyfederal.org)Caliber Home Loans (caliberhomeloans.com)USAA (usaa.com)Not sure if I can post a link here in the forum. 

Servicers have merged and operate on thin margins.Refinancing with a credit union or bank doesn't solve the problem.

My first deal looks like it will fall through because the bank doesn't like my work history. (4 months as a union electrician, which the bank considers contract work).

Leverage Local ResourcesEconomic Development Grants: Check with your city or county for grants or incentives aimed at affordable housing or community improvement projects.Local Banks or Credit Unions: They may be more flexible than larger financial institutions, especially if your project aligns with community needs.Partnership with Nonprofits: Collaborate with organizations interested in affordable housing or sustainable living.4.

@Timothy Hero community banks and credit unions are the OG DSCR lenders.  

And don’t sleep on local banks or credit unions—they sometimes offer flexible portfolio loans that could work for a deal like this.Since your wife qualifies as a first-time homebuyer, check out any state-specific programs or HUD options for down payment assistance.