There isn't anything that directly ties the amount of rent you collect to repair costs. 

The screening can be tied right to an online application (which could be tied right into marketing / listing website) - making the whole process pretty painless.  

You can use fancy words such as 'using leverage to enhance returns' etc. all day long, but the fact remains: if as a client I loose 50% of my premiums to commissions and fees I don't care what kind of leverage I gain as a result, it would practically be impossible to recover my losses. 

I can move out after 12 months and keep the FHA loan on the duplex but then you can keep more of your cash on hand instead of tied up in the first property.

Remaining 350k against New House.  

.)#4: Tie the property up and get it in contract.

If you cut ties with one principal broker, you are unlicensed until you sign on with another.If your main goal is access to the MLS to work your own deals, you can find companies that just charge a transaction fee instead of take percentage of your commission.

Heck; my general feeling (having  been through the torture of the program) is that seasoned landlords should also avoid it like the flu.If you remain interested in this program try to find a landlord in your area who is familiar with your local housing authority that oversees the program; they can provide valuable information on how easy or challenging it is to work with the inspectors and caseworkers in your particular program.Good luck!

This leaves me with the remaining 30% to finance.

Finding a nest of rare animals is astonishing.Finding human remains or similar situation is creepy.