I am in the process of exploring financing options for my first deal and I came across the idea of government down payment assistance grants.From what I read, these grants can be used to cover the down payment on a low money down loan such as FHA loan, which I was planning to utilize anyway since I will be an owner-occupant.Has anyone used this in the past?

Sounds like a legit plan.

However if you plan on buying 3-4units, there is a trigger rule for FHA, it is called the self sufficiency test.

We add them to the lease with an addendum and charge a $195 administrative fee for our trouble, which is less than they'd owe if we enforced our lease provision against overnight guests longer than 7 days without permission. 

With things like the ONE Linden plan in Linden, which is a 50M plan to improve the neighborhood.

I live in Indianapolis Indiana however, my wife and I plan on moving up north (near family) around the Lafayette area.

Since my capital is low I was planning on utilizing my credit cards to fund the rehab.

They plan on doing it over and over again! 

Planning on trying out furnished finder and may try others if furnished finder doesn't pan out.

To do well, you need a great plan.