If you keep the footprint of the home the same, you can avoid timely and costly site planning applications in most jurisdictions.

Having someone to help you navigate challenges, anticipate issues, and give you personalized feedback as you build your own path is incredibly valuable, especially as you're just starting out.While paid options with specific systems might seem appealing, I agree with you that the key is finding someone who can provide ongoing, situational guidance, particularly someone who has experience in real-world application.

What about character references from your tenants application? 

Perform the same task in each app to ensure a fair comparison.Load a property with pictures and details.Market that property.See what your marketing looks like from the public's perspective.Submit a fake application to see how easy the process is.Run a credit/screening report on yourself.Enter a maintenance request, assign a vendor, and attach a fake invoice.Enter charges to the tenant's ledger.Enter recurring charges and automatic late fees.Sign documents electronically.Run owner reports.After testing a few apps, one should clearly stand out.

A good broker remains transparent throughout the process, providing regular updates on loan applications, lender responses, and any emerging challenges.

Those goals are very specific to my situation and not necessarily applicable to other investors. 

Is your DSCR ratio greater than 1-meaning are you cash flowing (according to the lender's criteria of mortgage, property taxes and insurance (and HOA) if applicable).

. - that were new when the S8 tenant moved in 1-2 years ago.Another challenge of finding S8 tenants is many EXPECT you to waive application fees and security deposits. 

I suspect this would happen if various parties were given the ability to ask questions in nearly every application for what this thread touches on - and I have major concerns about integrity (and credibility) issues involved in putting yourself in a position to defend this position if ever challenged. 

Maybe paying off credit card debt or other debt on your report to reduce the minimum payments, increasing the downpayment, finding a house that doesnt require HOA or flood insurance (if applicable), etc.