Samuel - thanks ....I  believe non occupant co borrowers  will be allowed .....and I believe  that gift funds from relatives  will also be allowed ...

I'd recommend a gift from a family member or friend to assist in this.

There is no law that stops you from knocking on their door to drop off a Halloween goody bag or some gift, have cell phone in hand or have someone deliver it with cell phone ready to snap pics of dogs?

You don't waste there time, you bring them a gift a couple times a year and they will have your back.

Then do a 0% down VA for a principal residence/future rental SFR later.Low-down payment financing backed by the govt is one of the greatest gifts to real estate and ROI, IMHO.And yes, have them sign a lease if you do this deal and they stay.

Originally posted by @Ezra Harris:Lately I have entertained the idea that being handy might not be the best quality of a investor.Obviously this depends on your investing goals..But➡️Here is the question.. how can a “handy” or “gifted” builder grow without getting in his or her own way?

I'm sure it has not been easy.This post struck me as I just finished reading about 5 months ago a book which said something to the effect of- "If you come to me and ask me how to invest 500k I'll tell you to go invest in yourself first"Real-estate isn't as simple as dropping cash in a bucket and watching it grow, it's very intricate.

That 31 unit deal is the gift that keeps giving and we spent 0 out of our pocket!

They want at least half of their money from gifts to go into those accounts- and the percent keeps growing. 

Fed is giving everyone a massive gift now to just wait for 12-18 months.