Their communication is excellent especially compared to the lack of communication with the other company.  

Assuming the credit is healthy you may be able to go up to 85% loan to value. 

Did a home equity loan to pay for the water & sewer lines, removing knob and tube, some new flooring and some plumbing fixes. 

I've also tried to work with some local retail vendors, coffee shops, golf cart and bike rental companies.   

Yes, in some markets big companies buying properties can have a noticeable affect, but it isn't likely to be forever or as pervasive as you think at this moment.

It will be harder to qualify for conventional loans (personal or investments).

There are even members that will respond here that have ulterior motives, so you shouldn't trust them.Go through the content available here on BP and then start looking for a Property Management Company you can build a relationship with - but, still verify & validate what they do as no one is perfect and even an honest mistake can cost thousands.Some agents may post here to start with them, but 95%+ of agents don't know how to properly identify a rental property to buy.

@Thomas Kramer, @Anastasia Jordan, the problem with a "well designed limitations system" is that people game the system with different company names, partners, strawmen, etc.

The greater the number of units (and operating responsibility) the stronger experience could be required (and preferred.) - Many residential lenders now offer 'business loans' or DSCR (debt service coverage ratio loans) from 5-8-10 units.

We obtained a hard-money loan from Upright to help us fund this deal.