However, even though I have $50k to invest right now, I would prefer to go the traditional lending route for the first few which would require another FT job. 

If they really want the property and are willing to go conventional but their lender isn't getting the job done, please encourage them to shop lenders!

Other than that, my lender told me no big purchases, stay at my job (I have a W2) for 2 years.

Not a lot of industry jobs besides seafood which I'm sure you've seen

I would look at ways to cut back your current expenses and pick up a side job.

No it’s not my first real job was at 14 so idk why working at 16 would be any different

During the process there were some questions about the possibility that the income might go away so they made us confirm that we would keep our jobs for at least 30 days after closing. 

Get a referral, guy seemed energetic, my maintenance man met with him at another job site he was on..

Steve Shi Check our Rentometer it does a pretty good job in this area.

Before they took the job they knew they were going to do this.3.