I'm curious on peoples go to approach to secure financing for an investment property - use a broker? start w local bank or CU ? or even a local brick and mortar bank?

--- The worst condition a property is in, the fewer buyers interested, so the bigger opportunity it respresents. 

Having a famous former owner can add value, but it really depends on the person and the buyer pool.

This trend has continued since 2024, and buyers absolutely love them.

It will familiarize you with the basic terminology and benefits.

Quote from @Erick Pena: A "good" rental property is one that covers all expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, property management fees, and any other costs) and still leave a surplus (commonly referred to as cash flow).Calculate cash flow as: Cash Flow = Rental Income − Operating Expenses − DebtThere's much more to it, but that's the basic idea.

I cash flow them to buyers on lease options with a hefty option payment up front to me.

You understand some of the basic concepts, but also have some giant holes in your plan.

For example, I have a subject property that has 1682 SF on the main floor and 810 SF of finished basement (the majority of which is about 8 feet in height with the exception of some bulkheads to hide the mechanicals) and 271 of semi-finished basement that is a utility room basically (washer/dryer, freezer, hot water heater, furnace, some storage).

It essentially includes having a buyer for a specific property BEFORE entering  in a contract with a seller.