. - that were new when the S8 tenant moved in 1-2 years ago.Another challenge of finding S8 tenants is many EXPECT you to waive application fees and security deposits. 

You can get another $5-10 per night just for allowing pets (don't forget to take a security deposit). 

For your existing primary, you will need to have it leased with the security deposit and first month's rent collected.

Always ask for references and examples of similar projects (pictures)The Red Flags you have to Avoid:Lowball bids (too good to be true often is).Poor communication or delays in responding.Hesitation to provide references or sign a detailed contract.Cash-only deals or pushy behavior to secure the job.

Keep in mind that most residential mortgages are conforming loans that are resold on the secondary market and bundled into mortgage backed securities.

In addition to using your own funds, have you looked into securing grants to "stack" the capital you have to still acquire properties?

So does the time to secure a property for sale, insurance and taxes will accrue.

I highly recommend 51west properties, they're guaranteed and secured.

You could setup something where the fees are deferred until you secure the construction loan and then pay them 1.5-2x their standard fee if they waited the 6-18 months to get paid.

Securing loans with a low credit score is possible through private or HM lenders.