Understand the pros and cons of each approach, and consider which aligns best with your goals, risk tolerance, and resources.Evaluate Your Resources: With a healthy credit score and $35,000 in liquid funds, you have a solid foundation for real estate investing.

However, some lenders may have stricter requirements for multi-family properties, as they are considered higher risk due to rental income fluctuations and vacancy rates.To improve your credit score, consider paying down existing debts, making timely payments on outstanding balances, and avoiding new credit inquiries.

However at the risk of being blasted here I don't think SSDI is any more for veterans then anyone else.

Appreciate some feedback.I had a tenant, ironically also in Gaithersburg (hope it’s not the same person because she was a pain in the *** lol) but she wanted a new carpet we paid half, she paid her half via us uppping the rent $50 over what it otherwise would have been, so that’s always a creative option, however I wouldn’t want gas at my property if I could avoid it, always a risk of a leak or worse so I’d probably lean towards saying no to this specific request. 

Gabriel,There are several factors that come into play like if you are now W2 and the next job is W2 you will be fine.

Your plan should be in line with your risk tolerance, financial objectives, and the state of the market.

Their are a limited number of portfolio lenders, you should explore the guidelines before you purchase the portfolio and put your 200k at risk.

I have several clients that have a lot of equity in homes they purchased 8+ years ago but can't find a lender that offers the product.  

To disperse risk and improve long-term growth potential, think about investing in a variety of property kinds, regions, and asset classes.Feasibility of the Plan:An experienced investor would see your idea as well-thought-out and doable, especially in light of the local need for student accommodation.

if the deal still pencils with multiple strategies & you're planning to hold it long term, 20k over (in a higher cost market especially) will probably be chump change down the line. in general, it's good to not miss out on a deal just because you want a homerun deal. taking base hits get us further than waiting around for home runs. just keep in mind that if you have to come to the table with an extra 20k down (which you probably will bc the bank will only lend on the appraised value or PP whichever is lower), and you have to sell for some reason soon, you're probably losing that 20k. a risk you may be down to take if you really know your numbers, have multiple backup plans, and are in it for the long haul!