Your best bet is to look for portfolio lenders, local credit unions, or banks that specialize in condo loans, as they may have more flexible requirements.

This is related to lending laws/regulations created by the Dodd-Frank Act in 2010.

I'm ready to again take the next step and continue building my network.If anyone has recommendations for local real estate agents, tips for identifying promising short-term rental properties, or advice on securing financing as a investor, I'd greatly appreciate your input!

When considering single-family homes (SFH) or small multifamily properties, it’s important to analyze rental demand, local property values, and rental rates to ensure you’re getting strong cash flow potential.

Yes BofA is all over the country but if you go to your local branch it's pretty likely that loan officer and/or office wouldn't be licensed to operate in another state. 

I have a small retail space that a prospective tenant would like to turn into a local coffee shop.

Between the neighborhood recommendations, the renovation "trends", and the "challenges to navigate" I'm praying that a local realtor didn't actually write this.

I'd recommend speaking with local specialists in your target market to look at multiple investment options side-to-side.Lastly, some of my clients have been encouraged to stay away from HELOCs unless they expect a lump sum (inheritance, sale of other asset, bonus, etc.) to pay off the HELOC in the next year or 2. 

We have about $400k in HY that we can deploy.Background, Skills, Resources & What I've Been DoingI've been practicing law for about 13 years now in the NY & NJ area.

Narrow your top cities, build a local team, and refine your financial analysis to position yourself for success.Good luck!