It feels like a lot if I have to pay a full 2.5% to my agent to buy something in addition to all closing expenses.Thanks in advance.

So pending that the investor has decent credit and reserves to support, they do not care what your taxes look like.

Ive called around, and there is Fannie mae agency loans with competitive rates like 5.9%, with a 5/30 amort.

It helps you find investor-friendly experts like agents, CPAs, financial planners, and property managers who are reviewed by investors in the BiggerPockets community.Hope this helps!

My current issue though is that my mortgage and insurance have gone up to where it no longer seems like it would be valuable as a rental.

the appraisal should have considered the deficit and wether it was actually one on, like just sold, housing.  

States like South Carolina and Pennsylvania have already banned it.

Overall, in markets like Jacksonville, where the demand for both homes and rentals remains strong, there’s significant potential for investors who are ready to snatch the opportunity.

I personally wont give a wholesaler a non refundable deposit.. if the deal cant close for some reason they will normally ghost you.. this is probably new western or one of those outfits.. who rely on FOMO high pressure to get the deposits up front and released like that.

Holding the townhouse sounds more like a bad investment plan.Any advice is appreciated :)