I feel like they were willing to do a portfolio loan based on my prior account history with them (timely mortgage payments each month). 

My goal at my current company is to never leave until retirement time(our retirement is different and much better than your normal one) I enjoy what I do, and plan to expand my knowledge to make a difference within.On the flip side, I don’t want to save money just to watch my bank account grow slowly...

You could do the 70% formula, that is one way.However, it’s noteworthy to also take into account the cash flow potential of the property.  

Call Rick Cihak at Flynn Accounting.

Account Closed My best recommendation is to make a post about your situation on Bigger Pockets.

I'm a CPA and worked in public accounting as a financial statement auditor for 3 years, and have since moved on to an accounting role at a large corporation here in town. 

I figured it was time to get the ball rolling and make an account.

Account Closed I'll definitely keep you in mind.

Recently caught the REI bug and lenders I've talked to will approve $40K-50K max due to the age of our accounts and lack of activity opening new lines of credit. 

I have $x in cash in my account.