I hope it works out and post anything that's positive with the next PM.

Moreover, I would recommend prioritizing a W2 position over 1099 self-employment/sales for two reasons.

With your renovation background, you're well-positioned to excel in house flipping.

I think I misunderstand DTI for rental incomes.My DTI goes up with a cashflow positive rental ($2000 expense and $3,500 income).

How do others manage to create positive cash flow from MF properties with debt?

Because of my savings and lack of expenses, I'm in a very comfortable position to make my first move, but because my income is mid, I'm unable to meet the Debt-to-Income requirements to qualify.

Any insights, advice, or strategies from those who’ve been in a similar position would be greatly appreciated.

The duplex is cash flow positive, but not by much.

:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+ (roughly 5% probability of default), zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680 (around 10% probability of default), some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

Id go right into looking at local credit unions and small community banks for HELOCs (lines of credit) so you can have a lower blended rate and draw/payback as you please.For the 3F - Since this is free and clear, you would only be looking at 1st position options here in the world of financing.