I recommend speaking with @Denver McClure to see what is available given your situation.

Now, I’m more focused on multifamily properties, but I highly recommend them they’re doing great work!

I asked a ton of questions of both Fund and Grow and Plastiq, and I highly recommend you do the same because every deal and financial situation can look different. 

Do you have a recommendation on how to find local investor friendly agents or where to find wholesalers in my market? 

I highly recommend you reach out to him, he is fast, professional, and does amazing work.If you would like me to make that connection, reach out to me.

Some folks have already given good advice, and I want to add a quick tip for how to get data on potential STR properties.

For example, I would recommend touching base with local landlords in the market you're wanting to do section 8 investing in to get a feel for how the local section 8 office handles landlord/office relationships. 

Welcome to the community and be ready for a huge amount of information at your finger tips.

Quote from @John R Bongiovanni: Does anybody have recommendations on the various alternatives to requiring a full security deposit?

I am posting here because I am looking for some advice or recommendations from other investors who can recommend a lender that they had a pleasant experience with.