@Tom Canterino I'd recommend talking to a good mortgage broker, they are often aware of many loan programs that can help with that kind of thing.You could also consider bringing in a partner who can either loan you some of the down payment or some other creative solution (e.g., initially unequal co-ownership but where you could buy back X% over time until you get to 50-50, or something else entirely).Seller financing, as @Dennis M. said, is another great creative strategy, it's a variation on the partner theme, except the "partner" is debt partnering with the former owner.

What can I do to ensure that when I do get my first property it puts me in a better position to buy subsequent properties?

Any other creative ideas?

Hi biggerpockets!  This is my first forum post so first of all "hi" and thanks so much to those of you who contribute and provide a wealth of knowledge for those of who are much newer to the real estate investing worl...

What are some of the best ways to ensure the house will appraise higher and pay off in the end?

You can get as creative as you want with something like this. 

I just want to do my best to ensure I am not leaving a ton of money on the table.... short and long term.

He pays the rent every month (early you said) and is being proactive to ensure he can continue to pay his rent. 

This ensures it is done. 

Any creative Idea's would be appreciated.