However, both of their credit scores are not the greatest hence the extra deposit.

Seems as though Mint is the new age version of Quicken.

My 850 credit score was also less important to a broker I spoke to and who felt I wouldn’t get qualified for a conventional 30 year fixed.

Short version: I paid too much, bought in the wrong areas chasing ridiculous ROI %, did not hire an experienced, professional property manager, which also cost me financially, ultimately had to unload the houses losing about half of my initial investment + holding costs and some repairs and maintenance.  

I represent lenders in bankruptcy court and really only see some version of his Options 1 and 2. 

Anyone can recommend a lender which they accept borrower with an average FICO score?

(though I do have good credit score, decent DTI -  but mortgages are a pain these days).What would be a reasonable starting point for an offer regarding financing? 

This way you don't have to commit to a lawsuit, they'll assume you mean business, and you'll likely receive a response that spells out the other side's version of things. 

Beyond Fannie Mae, there are several investor products (portfolio loans) out there that with a 20% down payment and a 600 score or better and rents that are equal or are more than the PITI of that loan, you can do hundreds of those loans all day long.

*some lenders will allow seller seconds in order to make the deal workcurrently in the midst of a transaction at 1.5 million... buyer is coming in stated with 25% down...735 credit score...