Qualifying for a short-term rental to be non-passive doesn't give you REPS. 

Can you qualify for US mortgages?

You'll have to pivot to NonQM (non qualified mortgages) such as DSCR loans or bank statement loans. 

Sometimes it can take longer to place a *qualified* tenant into these properties as well so your vacancy can be a bit higher. 

Toward the end of the BP money podcast recently on SDIRA, Scott Trench made a comment about how using a SDIRA to invest in real estate could help people get out of the middle class trap (all or most of one's wealth being in the primary residence and qualified retirement vehicles). 

Alternatives for Capital Gains ReductionSince capital gains are taxed lower than W-2 income, these strategies may offer better tax relief:Opportunity Zones – Defer and reduce gains by reinvesting in Qualified Opportunity Funds.Gifting Appreciated Stocks – Transfer to lower-income family members for potential 0% capital gains tax.MLPs (Master Limited Partnerships) – Tax-advantaged investments that generate passive income with deferred tax liability.Tax-Loss Harvesting – Sell underperforming assets to offset gains.If reducing W-2 taxes is your priority, STRs are a great move.

Proper tenant screening helps protect your investment by ensuring the new tenant is qualified and responsible.

If you have not already, I would look into FHA or VA loans if you qualify, since they allow you to buy a duplex, triplex, or fourplex with a low down payment.

On a high level; you should have below (besides other minor guidelines) to qualify for 15% down DSCR: 1.

Quote from @Brennen McConnell: Can you qualify based on the following USDA requirements?