Once you reach E5 use the BAH base allowance for housing to start REI.  

I made a substantial down payment, so I could potentially pay off the house in about 4 years with my current income.

It really depends on what types of rentals you hope to keep, if you're house hacking and flipping, etc.

But the best ways to get started are, in my opinion: 1) save up enough for a 10-20% down payment and then save a lot more on top of that for reserves, overages, and any unforeseen repairs.    2) have your financial house in order and have credit above 700 to get more favorable rate and terms from lenders.   3) speak to a loan officer that is experienced with fix and flips and get the necessary documents together for a pre approval (typically not much required, usually a valid ID, LLC docs if any, and two months of bank statements showing funds for down payment and reserves). 

I have one duplex and have been house hacking since I bought it, it's been 5 years plus I have this property and finally ready for a 2nd one, looking to see if I get another multi or a single family, any thoughts Side note I also need a bigger place since I have another child who now needs their own room.

All that to say, PMLs are usually more concerned with the value of the property and will lend at a lower LTV regardless of ATR (ability to repay) because they know they can take the house for 65 or 70% of the value if you default in a worst case scenario.Hope this helps!

So now I'm expected to pay the same for the house + pay extra to my agent, which means reducing my down payment and increasing my mortgage.

Hey everyone,I've been doing some research on investing in Section 8 housing in Houston and came across something concerning.

Back when I was doing tons of REOs, I was the one paying for the utilities and yard/house maintenance.

The fact that you are knowingly leaving out the most important fact from your scenario tells me this is a con scenario.