The NON-QM lender may have the ability to get you a loan with a little more flexibility on your DTI.

So far I'm looking at junk removal (owner uses some of the rooms and garage as storage), flexibility on selling timeline so owner can do a 1031, potential covering some realtor or closing costs, etc.

It also gives you tremendous flexibility by allowing you to hold the property for up to 15 years without paying capital gains taxes. 

I am excited to get my first deal (outside my househack), and I expect  I will leave some money in the deal.The seller is remaining flexible with timing while I figure out how to navigate many new-investor steps.

Private money is flexible and would allow more options, but it you have bank financing, try to find the best deal on the market in the best neighborhoods.A lot of first-time buyers are more concerned with price and pick up headache properties just to jump in the game.

This will keep me flexible with respect to my tenant pool.Fully finishing a basement and adding a bedroom strikes me as a full gut rehab in miniature. 

I'm eager to lean and have flexible hours to be available at all times.

I have spoken with some lenders and I just wanted to see if anyone has any lenders that are decently flexible in the Columbus OH, area?

The way I see it, the HOA can be pleased at the fact the lease is long term, the tenants can enjoy the flexibility and option of staying longer, and I can have seemingly decent tenants and a heads up to prepare for the vacancy.

We both have some flexibility in where we live right now- but are located in the NY/NJ area.