Hello Mark, Jumping into real estate can seem scary right at the forefront; however, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences not only financially but also emotionally and mentally.

Also, it is very cool you've got to host so many different types of guests and actually enjoy the experience.

I also wouldn't use OPM for funding until you gain more experience and can show people that you know what you're doing. 

What is your level or experience?

I don't have a comprehensive experience  but I tried to find the least costly one for every step for me and applicants/tenants.

Our shared ambition is simple: deliver better traveler experiences across the entire traveler journey and maintain trust in the Vrbo marketplace.

Feel free to shoot me a PM and i'd be happy to connect further to share experiences or insights!

I met a new investor, with contracting experience, at a local real estate meet up and he is interested in doing a flip using a hard money loan, renting the property out to his girlfriend, then using a FHA loan to buy it so he can live in it.

just curious - is this something you want to do, and have experience in? 

So the "story" of why you are buying a SFR rental but also renting yourself should be very clear in a Letter of Explanation.However, these cases can be looked at generally - do you have other investment experience - or is this first foray into real estate completely?