I'm sure I could go to some midwest markets or even some more depressed markets in my region and get better pricing, but that's out of my wheelhouse at this point in my life as I have no desire to learn new markets when I'm closer to the end than the beginning. .Sure, obvious but over looked.

Hope is the industry gets some relief soon and I can revisit some options to further improve asset revenue through amenities and/or roll into a better rate a lower principle.

Better to have your own cash ready or a partner who can bring in cash.

@Charlie Hardage, how is paying down the HELOC better than paying down the initial mortgage without the HELOC?

You'll have an option between the FHA househack 3.5% down and the conventional househack 5% down - if you're VA then even better though. 

Even better if you buy 2-4 units, live in one and rent the rest - then repeat every 12 months.

I have better luck with posting in the zillow rental section;   rent before you buy, live in a great property while you get yourself ready to finance a great home....Our business model;   protect the buyer or tenant at even our own expense. 

I don't disappear when things get hard.Luckily, the investor/seller agreed that adding a fence and some other things would bring the property a better sale price.Not all agents are experienced, and not all investors need an agent.   

It’s hard to find good help, so I am hoping to screen better next time.

Rodrigues he’s done a ton of loans for me and clients and he’s always priced better and is super helpful the whole way through a loan