I've got excellent credit, a flip, and 4 rental units (in the past three years). 

Also, if they leave the place without damages, clean, and ready to rent (quick turnover), then I would consider returning the security deposit.

Curious to know if there are any good loan options )other than hard or private) that self employed people can use with little to no taxable income.

Min 2 year credit history as a professional unless you are a physician.

Curious to know if there are any good loan options (other than hard or private) that self employed people can use with little to no taxable income.

My concern is that the unit under eviction will be heavily damaged with no security deposit and insurance doesn't cover tenant damage, though a criminal act.

You’ll need money, credit, and a team.

I would recommend using a local community bank or credit union as they would be more flexible on accepting a land trust as a business entity. 

My wife and I have been working under the idea of starting ourselves out with hard money, as we a) don’t have the best credit, and b) don’t have much of our own money to go traditional routes.

EquityLock Structure: Credit Approval, Closed end, fully amortizing, fixed 3.99% APR up to 10 years.