If I'm on a job for some reason; and there's something that needs done that needs some muscle, you can bet I'm not opposed to asking a man for help. 

I've found some lenders that will go up to 80% sometimes, but I think your best bet might be a government-backed loan if you want such a high LTV ratio.

Your best bet would be to take a look at a combination of cash outs / or maybe just one in order to obtain your proceeds for the new purchase.

But I’ll bet  you’ve developed a great “feel” for when to “work” with a tenant and when to get “tough”  

I bet that is a lot of it.. the guy appears to be somewhat of a bully from what I read between the lines.. and of course some of these folks on this site followed his advice and basically do the same model that he does .. so it probably is not great that the risks of that model are popping up for them to deal with..  

I would however get into the habit of increasing rent every year, even if it is a small amount-it adds up and I'll bet your costs (insurance, taxes, etc) go up every year.

If you buy now you are betting your criteria will be similar when you retire.

I really see Columbus Ohio as an extremely safe bet for the next 10-20 years.

Hospitable is likely your best bet.

Good stuff - you are pretty spot on - technically people max out under conventional loans at 10 - but oftentimes its with fewer properties as people run into hurdles before hitting 10, some of which you mention - wanting to diversify strategies, multifamilies, needing LLCs etc.I think you are on the right track for DSCR Loans - I always say that DSCR is really perfect for people in the 5-50 property range - typically conventional is the best fit with your first few, and then when ready to make the "jump" to scaling bigger and faster - DSCR is the best bet.