If most of your lenders are like the ones that I call, they talk for quite a while before even finding out what I want to do with the loan or rate that I'm looking to get, if they know your rate prior to going off on a tangent, it may let them know if they can offer you something or if your rate is so good that they can't compete, leading to a more efficient conversation.Worst case scenario: You tick someone off. 

It is stupid because you get what you get and these houses may be retail quality, but likely are foreclosure quality, needing lots of repairs.I did not have entrance to either house prior to purchase.First house I knew has condition issues inside, and major roof issues. 

What out for properties that need work prior to the purchse. 

It would be easy to place the second property in a LLC by quick claim deeding the property to the LLC prior to refinancing for our third property but the first would require a little more legal finesse.

What is your late rent policy?

I have personally never met an owner that was sued and lost their investment(s) so I think the hype surrounding LLC and umbrella insurance policies is just that: hype.Talk to your CPA, educate yourself, and determine what protection is best for you.

My deposit policy is a minimum of one month's rent.

There are certain breeds that make it very difficult to get Homeowners or Dwelling/Fire policies.  

I got started with a Heloc on my primary + a scorched earth budget.I'd obtain a Heloc prior to moving out. 

Regardless what strategy you chose, take your time to educate yourself on it prior to taking action.