As you may have found in your search, there are lenders that will lend up to 80% of the appraised value on investment properties and don't require an appraisal.Let me know if you'd like me to point you in the right direction.I have not; I'm still working on acquiring my next house hack, but when I need it, I'll probably use a combo of hard money and margin loan.

Although in the last couple deals most have come out as 506C deals where only accredited investors are allowed, there are still 506B syndications where you can be a sophisticated investor (self proclaimed) so you don't have to be accredited.

Verify income: Always make sure they make 3 times the money required monthly for rent.  

At the end of the day, it comes down to what aligns best with your financial goals.

Offering a rent-free period helps the seller stabilize, but what happens if they still can't afford rent when the time comes?

A prudent investor doesn't seek quick riches through shortcuts.

@Kyle DeboerGet a job and save up till you can buy the first one.

Even the safest, least risky investments can and do go belly up from time to time. 

So, for the interest paid on the loan from August through December, who can claim the interest for tax purposes?

@Asseille OdelCFRI.netCheck out the calendar of events and start volunteering - it’s the best way to meet people there.