A lot of manpower is lost.As we approach our busy section 8 season (for us April - July) I am looking for better ways (more affordable and efficient options to the investors bottom line) to plan for and execute the workload which may include hiring someone that has section 8 experience to handle our CHA inspections(and associated maintenance work) or a company that we can outsource when the weeks get slammed with inspections. 

As long as you aren't too deep into the negatives, with the house hack you'd be living in a property at a very small initial investment (compared to 25%) down while having a reduced mortgage payment as you gain equity in the home, and in TX it'll be quite a bit more than most other states in the US.

Rather than simply accessing part of the equity using a cash-out refi you could sell one of those properties and use the proceeds (now with 100% of the equity available including the deferred tax) to purchase two replacement properties.  

I was wondering if I paid the $29,000 difference(not including my percent down) could it still be eligible for a conventional 3.5% down FHA Loan?

There are several different options, not sure about 7% but there are some options to off set the rate to reduce interest. 

Even though the bank gave you $95,000 to buy the home, they get none of that appreciation.Opportunity Cost of Renting: No Loan PaydownWhen you own a property with a mortgage, part of your monthly payment goes towards paying down the principal which reduces the amount of the loan.

I meet some of my most influential connections at these meetups including fellow investors, mentors, lenders, contractors etc.

Some MICs in Canada may diversify their portfolio to include anything from smaller second residential mortgages to mortgages for commercial development properties.I have found in my experience working with B lenders (i have a long list of them) is that each MIC has its own investment strategy. 

If I did, all the above, 2 tenants will end up paying nearly $200 more per month, not including a possible pet deposit. 

This policy should outline your criteria for tenant screening, including credit checks, rental history, employment verification, and background checks.Renters Insurance: Renters insurance provides financial protection for tenants' personal belongings and liability coverage in the event of accidents or damage within the rental unit.