When you flip a house you cap your profits at the point of the sale but when you buy and hold you create income as well as increase your net worth.I am in no way qualified to give advice but just some of my thoughts from another newbie!

Since I was in Texas and planned on staying there I found out that I was qualified to take the real estate broker license test and I got a license.  

Also try advertising, "First month free for qualified tenant." 

Since I was in Texas and planned on staying there I found out that l qualified to take a real estate broker test so I took it and got a license.  

I've been looking at Abingdon, Aberdeen, Havre de Grace and Bel Air but haven't found anything to purchase yet. 

The more likely answer is that the seller doesn't want to take the chance that the buyer won't qualify for a mortgage and doesn't want to tie up their property waiting to find out.

The interest is also a little high compared to conventional rates right now, but if you don't qualify for that type of loan--or you are only having to put down a low amount of money--then I think it's not terrible (if it cash flows).

I do see properties cash flow positive out-the-gate on 15 year fixed financing even here in the Bay Area, but it's fairly rare.Incidentally, if you plan on future acquisitions, anything that threatens your ability to qualify for future mortgages is a threat to your income and success.

Also FHA will consider part of the rental income added to your income to qualify for a loan.

Just simply creating a by-pass through checkbook control is not a solution from your perspective (as it pertains to securities laws violation).Please work with a qualified and knowledgeable professional to assist you in how you work with your prospective investors (or lenders).