@Saul Vargas, to piggyback off others, sourcing a traditional SFH rental that meets your underwriting criteria will be complex due to interest rates and market conditions.

To qualify, you must meet material participation rules (100+ hours and more than anyone else) so that rental losses can offset active income.

(I'm an early-riser in Chicagoland, so that's generally my preferred hour for meetings). 

I happen to be looking for gap funders myself for a number of my house flip projects in Houston, TX and finding gap funders or any kind of private money involves a lot of networking and putting myself out there to meet potential lenders.

Another pro for a HELOC is not having to meet a HML's requirements for a loan (insurance, draw schedules etc....)

I'm with @Huong Luu but would add join a local REIA and find some PMLs they are always hanging out at meetings.

This is expensive but you'll have a place to work and meet with people when you're in town that matches your online presence.

Anyone have experience renting a Non-Conforming triplex unit that meets Code through Section 8? 

So any contacts, known meet ups, or especially advice for an initial purchase is greatly appreciated! 

Firstly, there is an STL REI happy hour next week that might be a good place for you to meet people.