(great for me is $400+ but that costs me 30-40% downpayment and self managing)

The reason why I got commercial financing was because the places weren't immediately livable (missing kitchen, bathroom etc) and conventional lenders wouldn't lend on the property.Note even though they're commercial, at least for me, about the same application process as a conventional loan: full doc, credit pull, personal guarantee.   

And you can not get your unit inspected until you have already approved a voucher applicant (but not signed a lease, of course).

Is it after application process or before?

But, keep in mind you'll still need to be liquid for closing costs: Lender Fee, Broker Fee (if applicable), Title, Insurance etc.Cheers!

My wife and I own and self-manage several rentals in the local area.

Remember that Real Estate agents are self-employed so it is up to you to build your business.

Often a Self Directed IRA (SDIRA) is presented as a better retirement and/or investing vehicle, especially for its ability to invest in real estate.

I have been using transunion smart move for some time now to screen applicants.

However, I've been self-employed since 2010.