HUD 4000.1 (I believe) is the latest HUD handbook and it goes over all requirements for originating the loan, including but not limited to occupancy requirements and exemptions.FHA occupancy : "At least one Borrower must occupy the Property within 60 Days of signing the security instrument and intend to continue occupancy for at least one year."

You can borrow  against a 401k or another property you own for example, but that would a secured loan.

What do you recommend for home security Jim? 

Quote from @Brian Rocha: I'm looking to secure a HML for a fix n flip in Florida and for now and am only looking to secure for the purchase price only and handle the rehab costs myself.

However, there are ways to leverage SBA loans so they can buy a new primary and then look at their current property as an investment property and secure a DSCR loan to redevelop and rebuild.

Our lease contains a clause stating the security deposit cannot be used for the last month's rent. 3.

I’ve had to widen my search radius to smaller suburbs or target properties needing light cosmetic work to make the numbers work.Value-add opportunities: Adding amenities tenants love, like finished basements or upgraded kitchens, seems to justify rent premiums in this market.Navigating the competition:Be creative with financing: Seller financing or partnering with other investors has been helpful to secure deals when conventional offers didn’t cut it.Work with local agents and wholesalers: They often have their finger on the pulse of off-market opportunities, which is critical in a hot market.For those new to suburban Chicago investing, I’d say the key is finding the “sweet spot” neighborhoods—ones on the rise but not yet maxed out in price.

As I’m saving up for my first investment, I would like to learn more about the industry - and it would be nice to earn some income while doing so.Are there any specific skills or knowledge I need to secure a VA side gig? 

Consider all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

Consider all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.