And new construction homes in this area are selling for $500/Sq Ft+.On the surface it seems like building would be better than buying something built.

The personal loan terms are viable and the short-term credit score benefit seems to (on the surface) improve my lender options in a way that may make more sense for my overall strategy.

I've looked at two deals recently where the price seems fair on the surface.

That scratches the surface on planning for that BadgeThere are certaintraps in getting the badge for married taxpayers, some of whom may ormay not work in real estate.

@Chris Nappi There's a few ways to "skin the cat" in terms of qualifying for conventional financing. 

There are a hundred ways to skin a cat, but I suggest you consider house hacking to start.

@Natalie Schanne Hi, I do have 10% skin in the game and 4 points..

Are the tenants wearing shoes in the house and are there hardwood or laminate (ie hard surface) floors?

I had one home where the renter left ( moved out) there is the poor pit in the back yard no shade no water skin and bones  just un believable how they treat these dogs.. its sickening.. really. 

Surface drainage is going to account for most of the water that wants to get in.