Hi,
What do i I need to write off travel that is used to look for a property to invest in?
Do I need a business license ?
Can I write off all expenses from the trip, such as hotel, meals and travel costs like gas,...

If a seller has a very low interest rate and the buyer can pay more than what it is worth and have no realtor commission, so more goes to the sellers pocket.Subject to has been around for decades. 

I'm looking to buy a home now but larger banks such as NFCU seem to want tax returns that show lower DTI numbers, which is causing me issues as the accountant provided substantial writeoffs on my returns. 

This looks like many things but here are some idea starters for you:- Ensuring that payments are automated for receiving rent, paying mortgage, paying utilities- Ensuring the lease version used is up to date & calendar notifications are on for renewal periods- Tenant screening process is defined and followed- Turnover process is clear and team is in place- etcIf you need a CPA suggestion, I love Samantha Kelley.

Would renters be willing to pay $2,600 a month, or would they be more inclined to purchase a home instead?

You have a lot of properties around the colleges as well that can be rented to students or since its next to a couple of Hospitals the Nurses, Doctors, and other medical staff pay good rents.

I'd rather trust that someone pay an assignment fee (based on your word of mouth referral) and not get paid then the other scenario. 

It's a bet on the future appreciation, maybe generates enough income in the meantime to pay taxes and insurance, chances are no cash flow. 

Could we deduct most of the 100k from tax and potentially get profit from the sale?

Pay off your debts.