If you need to access equity for a second investment property, a HELOC would be a better option.Currently, many investors in long-term loans are seeing reduced cash flow due to high rates, taxes, and insurance.

As an investor, I'm drawn to the incredible potential real estate holds for achieving financial freedom and creating a legacy for future generations.

Being in the military will allow for you to use the VA loan.

That is because of the financing available with the owner occupied loans with the longer (30 year) fixed rate debt.

I would suggest looking into a low down loan, preferably conventional over FHA.

My plan will be to purchase a vacant land with cash and finance the home build through a private money loan.

Title company is asking for an Uninsured Title affadavit to refi out of a hard money loan.  

@Eryn GarciaPros are that students generally have consistent income from loans, parents, grants.

The lenders I've spoken with start asking for documentation "to validate the financial viability of the business" even though there's clearly more publicly available information from these companies than any kind of private investment. 

You want to get the best loan you can.