EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

@Chelsea DiLuzio 2025 sounds like it will be an exciting year!

This is the max it seems most "A" lenders will loan too, I might get 50% from a credit union but that still probably not help in the short term.How do people keep going?

It's great that you're focused on saving and educating yourself before diving into real estate.

Make sure you do your research as well. 

I have been doing this since the mid 80s  over 3500.00 transactions and If I can do it you can do it :)

It will familiarize you with the basic terminology and benefits.

Honestly, it seems like you’ve got more skin in the game than I do since I’m just getting started as a bird dog, but I really admire your approach.I think your focus on tax-efficient strategies and building a reliable team is spot on.

If you can brand yourself as someone with a strong track record of getting VA buyers to the closing table efficiently, realtors will take notice and vouch for you and your clients as offers are submitted and this will show tremendous value to borrower clients.  

The guy who runs it lays it out like this..1-5 rentals you are still doing okay, have more stuff come up between all rentals the closer you get to 5 or at 5.