We all use private investors or NON/QM investors for DSCR but some again charge points and some do not because they UW the file (Mini-C).Most Bankers typically offer rate closer to PAR or less margin built into the rate.

There are more buyers for SF homes, but Multifamily properties typically cash flow better as you mentioned. 

Also, if you buy using a hard money lender or cash, Zach Starnes can do re-fi's off the appraised value shorter than the typical 6mos and then you might not need any money down if you buy at the right price.

Do you typically take your insurance estimate, then multiply it by 3, and use that as an expense?

I would set up calls and then sit in and listen, every day, typically a few times a day for around 6 months.

Typically 75% of rental income can be applied towards your DTI for qualification. 

Typically the first set of tenants I screen are the ones who end up in the unit due to prescreening activities like my application and making sure I meet them.

I don't think the typical sub-to deal would lead to equity skimming because they are likely close to foreclosure and there isn't enough time to rent the unit back out and make money allowing the unit to go to foreclosure.

This is not uncommon and actual more typical as it is based on sales price and even though the first appraisal was $130k the new one gets reset based on its recent sale and home prices are not up 10% over a few months.You are going to have a hard time getting a lender to use other comps compared to this home as it recently sold.

**Navigating Inspections**: Section 8 inspections are stricter than typical tenant move-in inspections, and that can be a hurdle.