For 30 year amortization, 75ltv, high credit score, and decent rental I am seeing 7.5 percent and a few points as fees for 7-10 year ARMs.

Even though the military version of the TSP doesn't provide a matching portion (is that correct?)

If not, there are credit tools (like re-scoring) to get it up enough points.

Borrowers with credit scores as low as 580 can qualify for an FHA loan.

We are trying to increase of fico score but checking to see if there is any way around that while paying this rent, that could go toward a mortgage. 

I've tried on 2 different devices (laptop and tablet) to download the digital version of both J.Scott's books on Rehabs and Rehab estimates.

"The credit check is an industry standard decision rating based on the applicant's credit score and public records.

Also carrying over a high balance for a few months might negatively impact your credit score, depending on how high the balance is to the amount you can borrow.

In our area area at least, Postlets, Craigslist, and a sign in the yard cover 75% of where people look for rentals. 25% is Realtors/MLS and Realtor.com.I agree with what someone else said, I would learn about local laws and what are legal and illegal questions to ask and figure out what your criteria are for showing to anyone.Regardless of what the ads we write say with regards to income or credit scores, they don't get read by potential tenants.

Keep earning that paycheck and saving as much as you can.Keep your credit score up then buy yourself a home, perhaps a duplex or a single that you can rent spare rooms to your buddies.Let your tenants pay your mortgage.You can get a FHA loan which will only require 3.5% down.Richard had some good advice as well if your interested in earning some additional income quickly a RE license will really open you up to more opportunities to learn and earn while also keeping your regular job.Down the road your rental income and possibly real estate agent commissions can Grant you the opportunity to walk away from the w2'd job.Good luck.