And since I finished school 50+ years ago, mine may have lost relevance.But, my experience differs.  

If I were in your shoes (which I was recently, and will be again when I move to the next property), I would call up 10 different lenders including small banks, credit unions, etc. and tell them your situation, what you are trying to do, and how they might be able to provide a product to support you. 

Currently, my structure projects 8-12% IRR which stems solely from appreciation-based gains and has risks that differ from traditional REI or syndications.

I've seen a few different services like it. 

Trying to keep things simple with long-term single family rentals til I hit my conventional limit then will try different strategies with different funding options.

I'm a first time home buyer and was wondering how this situation would be different than a standard home sale.

Managing costs and maintaining the property well can also make a big difference.

In firing people on probation, it tends to play out much different under normal circumstances. 

(wood windows/wood siding) although that may not be much different than MA. 

I look forward to meeting new people from different backgrounds.All the best,ThobyDelaLuna