It depends on the lender but at a min they must follow TX SML or lending laws in the state in order to compliantly lend in TX, on whether choose to apply this guideline to all types of occupancies or transaction types (non owner investment, second homes/primary residences, etc)80-85LTV on rental properties is only on the purchase for fannie/freddie loans but on rate term refinances its max 80% and cash out max 75% for 1 unit and up to 70% for 2-4 unit cash out conventional.On HELOC's and rentals are up to 70-75% depending on the HELOC investor or product.Its good to distinguish between what the lenders are willing to do and for which product and also these loan products must abide my state law as well as an additiona layer of "overlays," on top as well (whichever is worst / most conservative).

Or should I just not worry about that and go with whichever has the lower payment knowing my goals are to lower carrying costs and I'm going to pay off the principal when I sell.

Good luck with whichever path you choose!

I have vacant properties that have been a struggle to upkeep while they are on the market either to be rented out or sold, whichever comes first.

Whichever is most beneficial for the state you're in. 

All these questions and thoughts should be brought up by whichever real estate broker you use.

Whichever option makes sense for you will depend on your cash flow/cash position.

Actual damages for breach of the rental agreement may include a claim for rent that would have accrued until the expiration of the term of the rental agreement or until a tenancy pursuant to a new rental agreement commences, whichever occurs first, provided that nothing contained in this section shall diminish the duty of the landlord to mitigate actual damages for breach of the rental agreement.

We get commercial financing through small regional banks who often require us to make rent deposits as a condition of our loan agreement so we 'choose' whichever bank gives us financing.

Whichever are combined into a single device.