I feel this gives me the flexibility to find the right solution for my client and not just sell what my bank offers.I'll also throw in my 2 cents on common differences I've seen in my career:CDFIs - Because of their subsidized financing structure, they have the ability to be a low cost lender (and sometimes provide grants).

Thank you  you can only use your equity if you have the ability to pay it back.

I have seen REI Hub recommended on here, but I am unsure of their ability to work with local banks, so if anyone has any experience they can speak of that would be greatly appreciated.  

Quote from @John Friendas: Quote from @Chris Seveney: When buying at auction you will have zero ability to sue (and win) an auction site if information is not correct.  

And I feel the ideal portfolio can benefit from the diversification of both.I feel directly owned properties are great because they give me maximum control and the ability to tweak them exactly how I want.

You might find a local credit union or community bank that will go to 95 -100%.At one point I called 2 different VA Regional Loan Centers regarding this section in the VA lenders handbook:Assumability - The second mortgage should not restrict theVeteran’s ability to sell the property any more thanthe VA first mortgage.

I intend on sending the tenant a bill for the exact repair cost as "additional rent" (per the lease) instead of evicting in the winter and deducting from the security deposit.

You may not have done your subject to purchase in a way that protects their future ability to borrow.

(May also cut significantly into the current cash flow on it)I know you mentioned not doing a HELOC on my primary, but wouldn't it be advantageous to have the ability to pay off the line of credit instead of be stuck in a payment that is much higher? 

So I would continue to hold the property - but I would be sure not to miss the ability to exempt the gain - so be sure to sell within 5 years.