The ability to adapt and think creatively will set you apart. 

Id like the CRM to have a power dialer (for calls) and the ability to send SMS texts.

For example searching on keywords in both the description and private remarks that aren't shown to the public. 

But the answer for everyone may differ.Here are the personal attributes I see in those able to achieve a higher than market ROI, enough higher to be able to “scale”.1- Knowledge of real estate principles, real estate law and real estate finance2- Minimum 3 -5 years full time, or near full time experience directly related to real estate investing3- Ability to utilize technology for increased efficiency, capacity, and accuracy4- Excellent hired legal counsel and excellent hired marketing help5- Established method(s) of obtaining consistently high QUALITY deal flow6- Ability to manage and choose people who are NOT employees: Attorneys, Appraisers, Mortgage Brokers, Real Estate Brokers, Title Companies, Surveyors, Marketing Specialists, Accountants, Contractors, Consultants, Property Managers7- A VERIFIABLE track record of success8- Ability to identify, analyze, and negotiate a deal that can be “worked” for “enhanced” ROI9- Some type of competitive advantage; for example for me it’s my ability to analyze and identify mortgage loans that are actually less risky than all other lenders believe (on the investing in debt side), and on the real property side it’s my ability to analyze”pull the trigger” with LESS information than other investors need,  combined with the ability to pay cash, or raise significant capital almost instantly as well as being able to obtain loans at the lowest prime customer bank rate with no recourse or personal liability.  

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.

As others noted, there is no limit to DSCR funding other than your ability to produce enough liquidity for down payments, closing costs, and the required reserves post-closing.

No qualifying and the ability to use your money to purchase something else?

The appeal of student housing to rental investors lies in its ability to provide a steady income stream, especially in areas with high enrollment growth and limited new construction.Given your experience and the quality of your properties, you should find a receptive market among rental investors.

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).

I am interested in meeting mortgage brokers, investors, and real-estate agents in the Austin area, as well as anyone who can connect my abilities as an engineer to a tech company in the area.I love learning new things, and not knowing how to do a thing has never stopped me from doing it.