I’d just like to off set the payment/upkeep initially. 

I was initially trying to avoid HML due to the higher interest rates and go conventional if possible.

As the property appreciates or rents increase, you can effectively phase yourself out of the property and purchase another, all while keeping the same initial mortgage.Newer investors like this strategy because it allows for a lower down payment versus purchasing a "true" investment property (which usually requires higher down payments). 

@Sebastian Dombrowski I personally think that's a very good initial approach.

My initial thought was to seek out RE sales associates and try to entice them to partner up (offering them bigger commission than they're currently earning).Was just looking for some ideas and advice.Thank you all in advance!

Improving the value of the properties would cost less out of pocket, when you decide to refinance if you didn’t put much down initially. 

I found a good one from Ron Legrand that I would use initially and then have the title company look it over and or update it before closing. 3.

Purchasing one house and then a few months later purchasing another and calling it a primary layers risk and puts the initial lender's money in a more precarious situation than when they lent you the money in the first place. 

Also, just remember that any NOI you add can be divided by the market cap to determine the value added to the asset.Instead of buying on cap rate, buy on projected cash on cash return (cash flow/[down payment plus initial repairs]). 

How would I begin justifying where I should start an initial offer price?