I'm doing a lil bit better than the 1% rule , but that's where I want to live in the future .

I believe the general rule of thumb is, you don't want to have more than two hard inquires within a six month period.Happy Investing...

The rate quoted is not dependent upon your credit score, we just need to understand why the score is at that range and has it been improving.Any improvements to the property would need to be paid for with your cash.As we have discussed before, I think you should start with a flip property, maybe even a couple so that you can build up your cash and then use a portion of the cash as collateral for a larger line of credit.

FHA 203(k) loans are not  available to investors.Rates are going to be slightly higher on renovation loans, but still very reasonable.Homestyle has a rule that the repairs cannot be more than 50% of the as-completed value of the property, so when you're working with these really low priced properties you have to make sure the numbers work.  

You can improve marketing, revenue streams, cut expenses just like any other property for the value add.

I'd recommend enforcing your lease agreement and if it did not allow pets, send notice of non-compliance in accordance with the rules in your jurisdiction and, if not cured, ask them to leave (including eviction filing).  

The following IRS websites cover the UBIT rules. https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/unrelated-business-income-tax To avoid UBIT it will be better if the self-directed IRA loans funds to the LLC as UBIT does not apply to notes.

Some other cities are highly troubled due to corruption or long rooted issues (Waterbury), and some of those are further along to improving (Bridgeport).  

The new prospect will be less than desirable as they see what you have allowed.I understand the temptation and desire to get it rerented asap (see my profile), but your marketing and tenant choices will improve by NOT showing while occupied.

Mailers, cold calls, door knocking... whatever it takes to improve our odds.