I'd like to be eventually self employed, but real estate is my primary goal in life.

Must have a steady employment history or worked for the same employer for the past two yearsMy jobs are currently under-the-table.. so no W2's or any official documentation to report.. this seems like a deal-breaker, but on the same token, if I do move to a place I like and commit 2 years in the local scene I would probably be getting more than min. wage by then.Your front-end ratio (mortgage payment plus HOA fees, property taxes, mortgage insurance, home insurance) needs to be less than 31 percent of your gross income, typically.

Were both self employed.

Cities usually list those statistics on their websites and are good for finding local employers also.  

Teaming up with my housemate has made it easier for me to motivate myself to get the license earlier than I had originally planned and also could provide a place of employment with his Father's close friend (apparently they've grown close over time as well).

I am cognizant of the lack thereof in my particular market.The specific market I'm looking at had a large employer move in for the visible future.  

I have identified a solid 4-plex opportunity but it needs to have an owner occupant...my question/situation:My daughter is employed new but good credit; however, her income ratios / expense ratios would not qualify her.  

Hello - I'm moving under a new employing broker and I will be doing property management exclusively.  

However, you can also pay yourself a reasonable salary, and take the remaining amount as dividends or passive income, thereby avoiding the 15.3% self-employment tax. 

However from my understanding being self employed can cause some obstacles in order to be approved for a home loan.