The investor either gets a loan or buys the property in cash.

Refinanced August 2020 into a 15 year loan at 3.375%

If you need any help with the financing, Aslan is beginning to offer the Chattel loan very soon which could be a great help.

You could also use a Fannie May Home style renovation loan which a conventional loan and require 5% down vs.

Commercial Loan How did you add value to the deal?

I know in Columbus a lot of community banks are doing loans on 2-20 units.

Instead of moving into another single-family home, consider house hacking a duplex or triplex, this allows you to use low down payment loans (FHA, conventional) and offset your mortgage with rental income, accelerating your path to financial freedom.

There is a reason banks don't make loans on stocks.

Yes there are alternatives for both beige and 30 year loans for no US borrowers.

Your realtor will be able to give you a much more detailed market specific answer but with house hacking and a VA loan it should be possible to get 0 out of pocket.