A little background first: wife and I have good jobs as professionals; live in the Los Angeles area; I have a CA real estate broker's license; Wife is w-2; I am self-employed; had a couple condos years ago, but did not enjoy the property management part; have been successfully investing in the stock market for a few years (even this year!)

As being self employed most of my life I had to get creative some times and hustle.

All contracts, options, or other devices not based upon a substantial consideration, or that are otherwise employed to permit an unlicensed person to sell, lease, or let real estate, the beneficial title to which has not, in good faith, passed to such party for a substantial consideration, are hereby declared void and ineffective in all cases, suits, or proceedings had or taken under this chapter; however, this section shall not apply to irrevocable gifts, to unconditional contracts to purchase, or to options based upon a substantial consideration actually paid and not subject to any agreements to return or right of return reserved.

If they are self employed, I woulds ask to see at least 3 years worth tax returns and 4-6  months of bank statements.

I verify employment by looking up the number of the applicant's employer myself and calling the company to ask for the supervisor.   

My employer gives me a car allowance and mileage.

How many of you have mentors or another type of Real Estate Career Development Personnel to help you throughout your Real Estate Investment, Sales, or Brokerage employment journey?

With a 1099 aren't I a simple self employed left sider?

(Credit report shows some debt as USDOE/GLELSI Employment but I don't know if it is student loan or what).

However, if you have other criteria, such as credit score, employment history, etc, then the percentage of qualified applicants to applicants will likely be lower with lower rent.