The deadline to file for properties purchased in 2024 is January 31, 2025 for the benefit to roll forward this year..Other Important ConsiderationsThe exemption doesn’t apply to agricultural property, personal residences, or property assessed by the South Carolina Department of Revenue.Even if you missed the initial deadline, you might still qualify for partial benefits in future yearsHow to Apply for the ATI ExemptionApplying for the ATI exemption is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to act quickly and provide the necessary documentation.

Personally I like the work part and building up to something.

One thing to note when getting conventional mortgages and spouses.There is a 10 limit per person for conventional financing.You can either do 10 conventional in each person's name which would be 20 mortgages for 2 people or if you do the mortgages jointly, will only allow 10 in total.My thoughts are not to own joint assets until you are both married. 

For example of above, there was a person I know, they bought a house for a rental, the square footage was enough to make a 3rd bed out of a dining room, that would increase the month rent by $400.00 a month if they did that..

Some people love that as the initial numbers look good, but probably over the long term they get tired of the common issues landlords face.It's not that hard typically to find a move in ready property, or even to find one that needs minor repairs, where you can capture the equity yourself vs the person selling it to you. 

I have 880 credit score, decent savings, and no other debt except for 300K mortgage on my primary residence (worth $1.5 million).

Is there a point of contact person/business that handles all home investor concerns (general contractor, engineer, etc.)

I personally again in my opinion only.. but these guys could be fake lenders.. for sure HML  do not have a requirement that they can only lend to a corp..

Like @John Underwood said, your cleaner and handy person can be of great help getting things done.

To get access to the maximum amount of equity, I would recommend Tower Credit Union.