@Joe Villeneuve I come from the "professional shops", the Institutional Private Equity and REIT industry, that's exactly how it's done when investments are evaluated, your Financials do not show any profit until all of your initially invested cash has been repaid by the Asset via Monthly, Quarterly, Annually distributions, or at the closing of Sale.

I would greatly appreciate any tips, recommendations, or cautionary tales you can share based on your own experiences.Specifically, I'm interested in learning about different creative financing methods, potential pitfalls to watch out for, and any legal or financial considerations that I should be aware of before proceeding. 

You could buy a multifamily, fix it up, rent out units while living in one, then refinance to pull out your initial investment and repeat the process.Additionally, deep-diving into specific areas within your target markets will help you identify properties with higher rental potential for your mid-term strategy.And regarding owner-occupying your first multifamily, this could be an interesting option depending on your financial goals and risk tolerance.

For starters, I recommend that you identify your investment strategy, choose a market that aligns with it, and establish your Core 4.The main challenge I observed is that individuals often lack a clear end goal or strategy, or they select a market that doesn't align with their chosen strategy.

Chattel lending on individual used homes just does not really exist right now.

Even with the possible down payment gap, it's imperative to thoroughly review the figures to make sure the investment is still financially healthy.

We are not hurting financially if we hold on and eat some losses, (it's great for tax season) so we aren't looking to drop prices any further. 

Your current financial situation.  2.

A amnesty for unpermitted work can be a financial gold mine for some of these owners.

Their financials are fine and they've never had any trouble carrying the mortgage but, as missionaries, they do fundraise their salary so I think that's where the bank is getting stuck.