It occurred to me that in markets like these, finding off-market deals or all-cash only properties was the way to go, eliminating those "investors" that pay way too much for properties and only have access to traditional financing.  

So much of the view points are coming from a scope of ignorance and people with inadequate business ability.

I found it best if they were a friend or relative to approach them with when it is time to decide what your going to do with the real estate I would suggest that one, or all of you keeps it.

Most or all other factors are ignored. 

The rock starts do any of the following by time blocking with dedicated time to any or all of the following:- door knocking- cold calling- open houses- following up^ That is a very basic, broad view, as you can narrow the above down tremendously.

So either your credit doesn't meet their muster or your income is inadequate for their metrics.That said, if you try to get some sort of private funding, you may be facing these same hurdles.The solution is to figure out the "why" of being refused a mortgage and then see if you can fix it.In my opinion, $10k is about the right amount to hold for reserves if you're buying a property, so save up some more.

Percentage of tenants that cause damages or leave the place dirty to cause them to not get back some or all of their deposit?

My questions:- Is there an account (money market/savings) where we can stash a large sum that will cover some or all of the 3.5% interest we're paying on the money?

Will landlord insurance be good enough or will I need one or all of the following:1) Dwelling policy 2) Builders risk policy 3) General liability Umbrella  

Funding 100% of purchase price and half or all of he rehab costs.