I work with a handful of investor friendly lenders that don't require W2s or tax returns (lending is based on the property not the borrower) but am always exploring new avenues.

Are there specific conditions that are required to claim a loss for my wife since she worked on rental properties?

I am at the point of being a borrower but not in a desperate way.

Gap funding usually requires collateral and or pledging of other unrelated assets. i don't like leveraging those items and are typically a oxymoron because if you have those assets and dont have cash you essentially get into a leverage position you dont need to be in.having a asset that can be pledged for a gap loan without cash to me is kind of an oxymoron in itself just my opinion. 

The Solo 401k requires earned income from self-employment.

Passive income streams require an upfront investment and a lot of nurturing in the beginning. 

In regards to the income levels, they way it works is the City will require a document be recorded against your deed that restricts the unit to tenants that make less than the amount specified. 

While you may be able to get away with not informing the county about the change in residency status, most of the legal residence application processes in SC counties to change your assessment ratio from 6% to 4% will require you to disclose if you currently claim this status elsewhere.

Where are you finding most of your tenants, and how much time/effort is required to secure a tenant?

It's been steadily going up however, so I'm either looking for lenders who would do a HELOC once my credit score reaches the required number OR I'm also seeking private lender who would be willing to lend with a second position lien on the property for the renovation amount ($35k-$40k)I was working with a private lender but he proved to be unprofessional and not able to prepare the proper, legal documents.