Thanks for the tip on Fountain Hill.

But, I would not bet on a boom in rents or prices until 2026 at least. 

My numbers were SOLID on the 2nd and 3rd deals. 

I would insist on him puling the permits.

Find deals that work based on current mortgage rates. 

Options are to take out a loan for the 25% and just purchase or co-sign a multifamily or just co-sign on a SFH so they can get the 5% down, no loan needed, there wouldn't be any real benefit to me and my husband as we would be assuming the debt but we would be helping our kids out.

You'd be wise to take @Jonathan Klemm up on his offer.

Using a VA loan for a second property, where I’d move in and rent out my current home.When I made an offer on a fixer-upper (I didn’t win that bid), the loan officer mentioned it might be difficult to convince the underwriter why I’d need another VA loan for a second property in the same area, especially since the new home is almost identical to my current one (same size, age, school district, etc.).

Many here on BP...  

Cut your losses, and move on.