I have been a financial coach and taught his Financial Peace University class several times, and the BIGGEST factor impacting success or failure for participants is getting on the same plan with his/her spouse combined with absolute transparency, participation, and integrity shared among all parties.Best wishes!

For ease and speed, I've combined the two purchases together in the BP Calculator linked here - all maintenance, taxes, lawn care, etc. are combined.My biggest challenge is that we have enough for a 25% down payment to meet the necessary requirements for a 30yr Fannie / Freddie loan, but it will bring the reserves down a lot.

I think they are a good combination of how to and why.

Basically, is there a way to combine single family units notes onto one note to make their value be considered the same way a 5 unit or commercial real estate is considered? 

Biggest lesson, growth and accountability is a tough combination to implement at once!

This may be different for different properties.b) We will consider combining up to three gross monthly incomes if it meets or exceeds 4x monthly rent amount.c) Deposits will be assessed based on the average FICO score of all adults.

But, whether you use the programs or not, will all depend on your planned timeline combined with your capable strategy (and ‘highly considered’ in how much you receive in grants).After completing the search for what programs you’ll use in the county of your real estate purchase, qualifying (usually involves attending a 4-8 hour course w/ certificate received) and locating lenders that support the programs you’re seeking, you’ll be ready to initiate your grant application process.

If you haven't closed, we've had success asking seller for extra closing costs for points to pay down loan to cover monthly cost or a combination of price reduction and points.

Good point, Theresa.Selling this home combined with savings should allow a 20% down payment on a 500k property. 

@Johnathan Cody I have two rentals for 4600 a month in rent combined.