I would get 0% offers for balance transfers where the bank would allow me to access up to the card limit in cash and direct deposit into my checking account within 2 - 4 days (for 3% fee).

@Bill Brandt could you share how much you charge for, pet included deposit and any one-time pet fee ?

. $1800.00 plus court fees. 

I want to do things the right way, but feel the pressure of a tight budget that will get drained considerably by the permit fee and multiple inspection fees. 

I've included an example below to help illustrate this.So different lenders have different rates (which do vary even for DSCR loans) but these are factors they all consider.See example below:DSCR < 1Principal + Interest = $1,700Taxes = $350, Insurance = $100, Association Dues = $50Total PITIA = $2200Rent = $2000DSCR = Rent/PITIA = 2000/2200 = 0.91Since the DSCR is 0.91, we know the expenses are greater than the income of the property.DSCR >1Principal + Interest = $1,500Taxes = $250, Insurance = $100, Association Dues = $25Total PITIA = $1875 Rent = $2300DSCR = Rent/PITIA = 2300/1875 = 1.23If a purchase, you also generally need reserves / savings to show you have 3-6 month payments of PITIA (principal / interest (mortgage payment), property taxes and insurance and HOA (if applicable).

So, the first question they usually ask a PMC is about fees - instead of asking about services and HOW those services are executed.EXAMPLE: PMC states they will handle tenant screening – what does that specifically mean?

They have fees on their fees.

I do expired listing calls for one of the agents in the Charlotte area and do a finders fee if they decide to relist, but I have the opportunity first to buy it.

Investment criteria not tax considerations should in my opinion always be the primary factor in making investment decisions. 

My wife called and they said they would actually let her assume the loan somehow, just a $900 assumption fee and closing costs.