Once the application is made, call their previous landlords and have them comment on "housekeeping" and any animal damage.For my area, I can get top rents because I rent to animal lovers. 

And if your loan will require a committee approval, you will want to know how frequently that committee meets to evaluate loan applications; could be once a month, and if your application comes along just after they meet you could have to wait until they meet again. 

Water companies in some areas require applications in person, along with cash, bank check, or money order deposits.

Broker gets the points for taking the application, writing up the docs and processing etc..Doing this keeps the loan compliant.

As far as doing consecutive 6 month LO's, per the statutes that would still mean the applicable parts of Title 2 apply.The purpose behind the 180 clause was for temporary leases that are used from time to time with traditional purchases.

The family member does all the foot work of finding and application of new tenant and H takes care of repairs needed and picking up rent.Very down to earth.

Are you getting no calls at all, or are you getting calls doing showings and no one applies, or are you getting applications but no one passes your screening?

As for smoking we don't allow it even so we had someone set a couch on fire.Your application will be a little different, include majors and do a web search on them for your screening. 

It sounds like you have a very complex situation, where a bank may not feel like venturing unless everything else about your application is iron-clad.  

Also, once you get the multifamily, it would seem the VA guarantee would make you a stronger applicant for your primary....because the investment property is risky....ask a mortgage broker or loan officer.