I've reached out to lenders here on Bigger Pockets- but their rates & terms seem high (DSCR or just not good terms)- I qualify for a conventional loan, but my DTI is almost maxed so why pay an extra 2-3% DSCR when I don't have too. 

This means you’re effectively living for free, or close to it, while building equity in your property.Low-Cost Entry into Real Estate InvestingBecause you're living in the property, you can qualify for owner-occupied financing.

To me, this meant longer vacancies between tenants to find a qualified tenant.  

The challenge is going to be qualifying for each property. 

To qualify for debt, lenders generally look at net worth (aim for the loan amount), liquidity (10% post-close), experience, and a solid credit score (ideally 680+).

If you’re approved for the mortgage they assume you’re qualified to pay it on your own so if you can afford the monthly don’t overlook the power of equity.

Improved DSCR: If a company’s DSCR has increased significantly since the original loan was taken out, it may qualify for better interest rates or terms, making refinancing advantageous.2.

is that it typically comes with higher rates on the first mortgage, if you're low income enough you might qualify for near free DPA but most DPA's open to all income brackets are typically at higher than market interest rates.

They say by 2028 the percentage will be closer to 30-40% of people. based on those numbers 500k plus 3 mil plus I suspect less than 2% of all folks in the US would qualify and maybe less than 1%.. 

If you're getting a lot of traction with prospective but qualified tenants that would like to view the unit - let them know the time that the leasing/showing agent will be there so they can view the interior.If they're going to lease the property for you - one to half a months rent is fair compensation.