We have a very complex issue and are in dire need of help. 
Backstory: Our dad rented to section 8 population because his last eviction process (with tenant A) cost him $10,000 just to evict. “Tenant A” damaged our d...

Next step is getting a pre approval letter.

As you approach your next purchase, start talking to lenders about pre-approval, build investment criteria, and continue educating yourself on market trends.Good luck!

Usually with Section 8 you need to give them 60 days to approve a rent increase (this is at least how it is in Massachusetts with my tenants).

Since you mentioned you don’t have flood or wind coverage, it’s possible that your claim for lost income may not be approved.

Talking to lenders for pre-approval letters.  

So my question is how am I able to finance a house and actually have a lender approve me?

Once you have your quote sheet and your pre-approval letter then you make your offer. 

Assembly Bill 1771, also known as the California Housing Speculation Act, aims to change real estate tax policy to discourage investors from quickly reselling properties like single-family homes.Under the proposed bill, an additional 25% tax would be imposed on the gain from the sale of a qualified asset (including homes) within three years of the previous sale.The tax reduction is dependent on the number of years passed since the initial purchase of the qualified asset, ranging from a 20% reduction for sales occurring between 3.01 to 4 years to a 100% reduction for sales occurring more than seven years after the initial purchase.The revenues generated by this tax increase would be deposited into the Speculation Recapture Community Reinvestment Fund, which aims to support affordable housing, local governments, schools, and infrastructure projects.The bill is introduced by Assembly Member Ward, and the proposed tax changes would take effect from January 1, 2023.Assembly Member Ward argues that short-term investors in the market, including fix and flip investors, contribute to rising housing prices, limiting opportunities for Californians to purchase homes.While the bill may discourage short-term speculative transactions, it is worth noting that California's tax laws still provide certain advantages for investors, including unlimited tax write-offs and depreciation benefits.The bill is subject to legislative approval, and Assembly Member Ward will speak publicly about the bill at the San Diego County Administration Center on a specified date.Please note that this is a simplified summary of the bill and its potential impact on fix and flip investors.

Zoning approval then a general contractor.It is not something I own or plan on doing  But there are small developments that pop up from time to time.