If someone behaves like the tenant in the article I have reserves set aside for that.

This will prep you well for a refi.Also make sure you have multiple exits (rent, flip, lease option, etc)...AND have strong cash reserves. 

I have about 5 months worth of reserves after the new purchase.

Once you know the payment amount will the rent for the 2 units cover the payment including taxes and insurance and allow you to put money in reserves for maintenance etc.?

What stores sell bandit signs?

HELOC is a good source of cheap money, if your are willing to risk your house in the event the deal you do goes bad, usually reserved for an experience investor.

At the time I thought that was the best place to put my money, and live off of the rental income.Unfortunately, due to my income, I do not qualify for a traditional full doc loan, even tho I have reserves and 790 FICO’s across the board. 

@Avery Carl thanks, is what it is, thankfully have reserves to hopefully weather the storm.  

I'm contemplating my first deal using hard money, but have similar reservations.

I have been reading that the lending guidelines have gotten stricter with the this pandemic, they are looking at higher scores, reserves, etc.My question is:1.