It is up to them to prove you are taking false deductions.

You must prove that you are going to occupy one of the units as your primary home. 

I am not talking about having cash to support the full value of the loan or anything, but certainly a reserve fund that can carry the investment through tough times.

This is a tough situation for everyone involved and you want to be respectful of your tenants. 

Tough spot to be in, but an opportunity to help a fellow human.

The seller drove a real tough bargain during the entire negotiation phase.

These properties sold during winter which I think played a role... as mentioned before sub 350k is tough to get now so knowing what areas should be priced at and trying to scoop properties below that is a very obvious, but tried and true method to build equity, particularly if you're okay with buying properties that need a facelift.Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I asked if I could prove Year-to-Date earnings with my contracts, invoices, and bank statements, but they said underwriters always fail these exceptions for self-employed. 

Former Long Island guy here, now living down where all Long Islanders seem to migrate to. . .Florida.Anyway, that market has always been a tough nut to crack. 

That makes it tough on landlords...well at least that rule is prohibited now.