If you're going the umbrella insurance route, make sure it will cover you for several things including just the routine slip and fall (like mold or earthquake).

Depending on the bank you're using and the loan (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, etc) they do have pretty strict requirements about what property condition they'll loan on.

We routinely set our deposit amount above the rent amount intentionally, to encourage the resident to keep the place in good condition & to remind them that is separate from the rent. 

When we move, both properties would become rentals.C) Use the money strictly for investment properties and live on base or rent (utilizing our BAH to pay for our housing).D) None of the above... 

You'll be shocked how many cases got overturned due to the Bureau's failure to strictly comply with the notice provisions. 

@Greg Jenkins Texas refinance laws strictly require 20% equity in your property.

The security deposit though is not to be used for late/lost rents, it's only for damages beyond normal wear and tear, usually state laws are pretty strict with that but you may need to check your state specifically.  

I understand things aren't as strict in the civilian world so it's just a growing pain.

When you say you have been turned down by several lenders are you strictly talking from a pre-approval standpoint or was your file/loan actually sent to underwriting?

I have not spoken to a loan officer yet as I'm just practicing the routine of analyzing deals, so I'm not sure if this is very realistic, but rates are very low at the moment.