You have no "skin in the game" and you live "out of State!"

While we use online listings, the for rent signs bring referrals from people living in the neighborhood... since they have skin in the game trying to pick good neighbors, it seems to be a good source for leads IMO.

You have to have some skin in the game otherwise it would be way too much risk for the lender.

I don't know why people are scared to give honest feedback for reference requests...it kind of defeats the purpose when everyone gives glowing reviews.

In the same spirit of @Karen Margreaves "Skin in the Game" thread; I've seen a lot of people inquiring as to what investors and/or potential partners look for when deciding who they will work with.Some of my thoughts are around some common sense concepts like: referrals from others, and building relationships via being involved in RE types of organizations.

They want you to have enough skin in the game you're not tempted to walk away when things get rough.

Did the seller replace all the mechanicals or just do "skin job" which is carpet and paint with a deep clean to make it look good.

Probably 5% skin required, but not allowing a gift is odd for that type of loan, check on that again.Your idea of a co-borrower is probably best.

IE, an attorney/developer sold a property and claimed that there was a listing agent for the lot and and different one for the transaction, while it was no skin off my back, my selling agent would have to give up some commission.

Some lenders do accept a seller second, but most want you to have "skin" in the game, therefore a seller second is frowned upon and not allowed.