However, even the legal immigrants have a difficult time with the DTI requirements, because so much of what they do is in cash and so many are self-employed.  

There is no one size fits all solution.

Although it may not be part of your short-term goals, I talk to people all day long who have significant previous employer 401k balances who are very happy to be able to self-direct these funds into real estate and other alternative assets.

I simply advertised the property at my place of employment for the renters.

I encountered a rent to own house in my neighborhood which I tnink is a perfect size for us. 

To get passive with multifamily and employ a full time repair person about  75 doors or more is needed.

The area is a C- to D+ but there are some strong signals that employment in the area will be increasing soon.Thanks,Dave

Interested in Single/Multi Family homes as well as Condos and Small to Mid size Commercial Spaces.

Unfortunately, the loan size ($300k-$400k) is a bit too small for CMBS or conduit loans, but I was hoping someone would know of other methods to obtain this this kind of product.

@Tony Velez    it is a good question... the reality is there is not a one size fits all... for one investor to tell you it is good or bad for you is absurd...