Specifically, I'm looking for neighborhoods with a good amount of distressed 3+ bedroom townhomes for sale for $120k or less that require a moderate amount of renovation (no gut jobs or major structural issues) and that will get me a rent-to-price ratio of 1% or higher on the final ARV.Thanks in advance for any thoughts/ideas/suggestions!

The person you spoke with may be referencing earnest money deposit (buyer showing the seller they have skin in the game; this can be refundable or non refundable).Some lenders require an application fee (junk fee) and those lenders typically are more expensive to begin with.

If you just want 20yr 2MM non convertible term its price shopping except prices may change depending on how automated the carrier is and if a paramedical exam is required.  

Otherwise, I think the main issue is "creative financing" still requires "desperate" sellers, those that have a particular massive "pain" that just needs to be relieved in anyway. 

Lenders typically require a DSCR of at least 1.2 to 1.25, which means the property's NOI must be at least 120-125% of the annual loan payments.this would be a boost to the investing time

TD was not interested in doing a new HELOC because my portfolio is too big for their lending requirements (7 properties with primary, I thought the limit was 10, but evidently not).In any case, I am looking to either do a DSCR loan or if possible find another company that would do a HELOC on an investment property.I am wondering what lenders you are currently happy with on the DSCR side and if you know any that still give HELOCs on investments.Thank you so much! 

If we did split it four ways it would be over an acre per slice and it does seem to meet all the requirements (such as minimum lot width and road frontage etc.) for its current zoning as a four parcel set up.  

And yes, the Buyer Agency Agreement requirement is troubling. 

Something to note, if you pay cash for the house and later require access to those funds, utilizing a HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) allows you to retrieve that money.Secondly, the right approach for investing depends on several factors.

Remain goal-oriented, adjust to shifting market conditions, and ask for assistance as required.