Then just putting passage levers on them for entry to prevent them from locking themselves out. 

The idea would be sellers are eager to get rid of the property and, therefore, more willing to take a lower price.- Search Craigslist for FSBO's?

A) Location location location - there are only ever so many places that are going to be walking distance from the chairlift, and so investors are willing to take a lower cap rate with the expectation it will be more than made up for in the end with appreciation. 

So in reality you would only be saving 3% and there would be less motivated buyers viewing their home, which typically results in lower offers and ultimately a lower sales price. 

And Zack, I was leaning towards the FHA with the lower down payment.

I put a keyless entry door lock on the apartment. 

Could I use rental income from the multi-unit, and future rental income from my SFH to lower my DTI?

Should I try to enter a different type of market (lower cash flow, higher appreciation potential?)

I believe that the HELOC has significantly lower closing costs that a full refinance with many lenders.

Are you deliberately buying negatively cash flowing property in in order to try and lower your taxable income?