I highly recommend 51west properties, they're guaranteed and secured.

. - that were new when the S8 tenant moved in 1-2 years ago.Another challenge of finding S8 tenants is many EXPECT you to waive application fees and security deposits. 

You can get another $5-10 per night just for allowing pets (don't forget to take a security deposit). 

Always ask for references and examples of similar projects (pictures)The Red Flags you have to Avoid:Lowball bids (too good to be true often is).Poor communication or delays in responding.Hesitation to provide references or sign a detailed contract.Cash-only deals or pushy behavior to secure the job.

In addition to using your own funds, have you looked into securing grants to "stack" the capital you have to still acquire properties?

You could setup something where the fees are deferred until you secure the construction loan and then pay them 1.5-2x their standard fee if they waited the 6-18 months to get paid.

For your existing primary, you will need to have it leased with the security deposit and first month's rent collected.

@Ben Berg, welcome to BP and great work securing your house hack!

This includes, water, hot water, heat, air conditioning, cable, security system, snow removal, lawn care.

Keep in mind that most residential mortgages are conforming loans that are resold on the secondary market and bundled into mortgage backed securities.