Investigates rents in the area and calculate if the rents will cover the mortgage when you leave.

I just have some questions about working with private lenders. 

Note: I left my corporate job over a year ago and building a startup (beyond real estate) so I believe this limits my options re mortgages, yes?  

Mortgage lenders are increasingly creative in how they underwrite borrower income for vacation rental or properties intended to be AirBnB's.

Need lender financing.  

The most obvious is that you will be able to offset your mortgage with renting out a few rooms.

Hi - typically Mixed Use properties are going to require a traditional commercial real estate loan from a bank, small balance commercial private lender or for the larger ones a CMBS style loan.However, a newer "DSCR Loan" product for Mixed Use is making a comeback - which is a really great option for smaller properties/more beginner investors since it has all the same trappings as a residential DSCR Loan (30-year fixed, easy qualification, straightforward process) for a property with commercial units.Generally going to be limited to 8 units max and has to be primarily residential in every way (majority residential by units, square footage and rents) but if it fits all that, its a great option

Mortgage is $3k / mo so it should be able to cash flow well once inhabited. 

DSCR Loans are typically great for STR purchases - however, DSCR Lenders are going to require at least some "skin in the game" - so won't be able to have a 2nd lien for the down payment. 

I just bought a house in los angles and can only afford the mortgage if I get roommates.