The three pillars that qualify a DSCR loan, your credit score, loan to value, and the DSCR score ( gross rent / PITI(a)) - getting preapproved should be no problem as long as you have enough down payment, usually 20%, closing costs, and reserves. .

If you don't have the "dough" you don't have the "go".Based on what you are saying you will need 20% down payment for a rental + closing costs + operating reserves (in cash).Most people will not have this--some will do what they need to do to get it--some will not, some can not.A good first step might be to save up as much as you can for a year in a special savings account--by living frugally for 12 months.Then explore down payment assistance programs in your area for first time home buyers of a primary residence--if you qualify (and the home is in a good area for your 'Family" vs Gunshot Alley, then buy a home for yourself and your family.Getting on the track of being a homeowner will give you some additional strength, after a few years of ownership, re-asses your situation.Or work 2 jobs and save the 20% down, closing costs and operating capital you will need, but if you do that and your wife divorces you for it, then you will be in a worse situation than you are now.In the mean time, [1] read Rich Dad Poor Dad, and [2] have fun with your family doing things together (while you have the time), rent a boat for an afternoon, go on a pic-nick, hike in the woods, etc...

Build its credit by opening accounts in the LLC's name and making timely payments.

The mortgage payment is going to hurt us without a tenant, so we really need to get this moving.

For a 1000 unit SFR portfolio in Tampa, you could have a portfolio manager in Cleveland, OH, a call in Center in Topeka, Kansas, remote customer service team members in Mexico or (offshore) in India, and a rental payment processing center in New York.

We all have a human side but at the same time, if they can't afford my terms and they have proved that they have already missed payments to other landlords, it's a super easy decision.

- How many payments can YOU pay out of pocket, in the case the builder “needs a grace period” or otherwise is unable to pay on time?

Live in them for 2 years or long enough to save up another 5% down payment and repeat. 

@Jacob Hancock-no reason to start with a new build - way too much risk and complexity-start with a house hack with a low down payment loan-if it goes well, do it againgood luck

Leverage the 0% down payment, but be mindful of funding fees.