Wife and I both have an 800 credit score and plenty of income with a 19% DTI ratio. 2) Do you recommend that as a first timer I actually do go with a higher down payment product as I learn?

We offer it at TFSB but it does require the basics like qualified credit score, DTI ratios - Must have W2 or (2 years of 1099 income) to qualify.

I believe up to close to 40% down with a 720 or greater credit score on a conventional loan product could give you the best interest rate. 

I have found the JLDs to be mostly from credit card companies and banks, but I am still unsure if that's what I am suppose to be looking for or not.

In the times I have seen it, it has been due to the borrower saying they have like a 720 credit score and it comes back a lot lower, or the financials of the deal are not what was represented. 

YUP minimum requirements.. although you would be surprised how many folks cannot get a bond because they lack credit score.. this will weed out the really poor players and give state a vehicle to regualted those that violate the laws without all the grey area currently.

You can do whatever you want in terms of bending for the tenants and trying to provide "great service,' but the truth is you receive no credit for it and will be the evil landlord at the first repair that takes too long, late fee owed, alternation denied, etc.  

My go to for lowest hassles, taxes and  transaction costs are Lease Options or selling directly to the renters. 

These markets often have strong population and job growth and strong rental demand.But the reality is that even in more affordable markets like Columbus, you'll need about $50k-60k household income just to qualify for a conventional investment property loan (this assumes good credit and reasonable debt).

In general tenants with a credit score worth preserving pay all that is owed.