Options like conventional loans (3% down), FHA loans (3.5% down), and even no-down-payment options like VA or USDA loans could work for you, depending on your eligibility.

It's dependent on your situation. 

It depends how long you plan on living.

Depends on carrier.

It depends on your lease terms.

If you are looking to pull out equity on your home to start to do some fix&flips(great idea) then it would all depend on how much equity there is in you home and your current income(SSI,retirement etc).

Also, which choice is better for you highly depends on what your real estate goals are and the experience level & skillset of the specific agent.Traditional agent and Redfin Agent could essentially be the same thing in many cases.

Here are a few strategies to consider for funding a down payment:Partnering: Like Gregory mentioned, finding a partner who can contribute to the down payment in exchange for equity or a profit share is a solid option.HELOC or Cash-Out Refi: If you have equity in your home or another property, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or cash-out refinance can provide the funds you need.Private Money: Reach out to friends, family, or private investors who may be interested in lending you the down payment with a promissory note.Seller Second: In some cases, the seller might agree to finance a portion of the down payment as a second mortgage.Live Frugally and Save: It takes time, but reducing expenses and setting aside funds from your income is a tried-and-true method.The right approach depends on your situation and deal structure, but a mix of creativity and resourcefulness can go a long way.

Well, of course it depends on the individual circumstances, the amount of time comitted and the capital available.

Depends on what you're trying to accomplish.