Those kinds of loans are backed by the US Government and I don't believe a foreign national can secure one of these loans.

If you get turned down due to your lack of credit history, apply for a secured card.

Short term hold < 3 years I would secure a line of credit. 

If you are securing the note on a loan you need to limit income contribution to those that are on the note. 

Perhaps in that case, but the weight of that much roofing would be causing other issues i would think. 

If appropriate, secure that against another property or the subject property (after close) with a second lien.  

I have since narrowed my sights onto what I think will be a great start for me.I look to purchase my first buy and hold in the next month or so and am more than excited to learn all I can along the way - the fact that it can provide an enormous amount of financial security for me and my family has helped in the way of motivation.

@Upen Patel is right that an offer underwritten by a lender who does fully approved loans carries a lot of weight.

Does the appreciation increase out weight the cons?

I believe that becoming a real estate investor will enable me to achieve my most ambitious life goals as well as obtain a secure retirement.I'm looking forward to talking with and learning from the active community members!