Grants or any kind of financial help.

I'm pretty conservative financially, though I don't disagree with the notion of leverage for growth and higher returns.

IF the 75% falls short of the mortgage payment, then the lender will look at your financials to "help" the property pay for itself.So, what does that mean to you? 

After you're done with that you can always buy a single family to start a family in if you need to.I think it's the best strategy to get started and make a big change in your financial position!

I am still waiting on the financials but I don't think they pull 6k/month in it's current shape.

If it's "financial independence", what does that mean exactly? 

and others say "make sure you are somewhat financially stable before you buy your first property."

Financially / Cashflow speaking, solar is a no brainer if you can make this happen.

With 20% down you should absolutely be able to find a 30 year fixed rate....although, I don't know your financial/credit situation...but getting a 30 year fixed rate, especially early on, will help you qualify for more deals in the future. 

When there's seller financing under those rates/terms, us institutional lenders can't touch it, not even close!