The real power in the VA loan is the ability to apply the loan to small multifamily properties (up to a fourplex).

Should I start applying to local mortgage brokerages to gain experience and learn as much as possible?

Here's another article regarding plan asset rules that might apply to your situation as well.

If you can get a tenant sign a lease when you apply, that'll help a lot.

Have you considered applying for a HELOC?

However, according to the legal folks at the California Apartment Association, the CDC order may not even apply in California. 

(Credit and background checks still apply).

Basically, I have been having them apply, run back grounds and credit check before ever walking through the unit.

> Generally that 10% down applies to '2nd homes' so as long as this is your vacation rental you can usually claim it as your 2nd home but on your next property it would have to be an investment property.

The term you used - UBTI - stands for Unrelated Business Taxable Income, which does not apply to this situation.