Invest in some awesome parking facilities, like garages or covered spots.

We don't cover that area, but know that due to lower population density, finding a great PMC is difficult. 

Possible add insurance on your appliances with them paying by adjusting the rent or if they are OK with it so if something else breaks,your covered. 

we have several properties now in McHenry County now, and we are looking desperately for an attorney that covers that area.

Also, are you doing separate loans, or one loan covering both properties?

The issue is, I'm not sure if my income will be enough to cover 2x the monthly mortgage payment that most loans require.

@Matt WeddonLegally, you’re covered as long as you stick to objective, non-discriminatory reasons for rejecting someone (things like personality or ‘vibes’ don’t cut it in Fair Housing law).

I have a buddy that has been doing flips for a few years and he now has investors approach him asking to get in on his flips so he lets them cover the down payment/entry fee's for 30% return on their money.

This has to cover your debt payments also.3.  

He had this ambitious flip lined up and decided to tap into a 0% business card deal to cover the rehab costs.