Carl Fisher, My quest to gain knowledge about this Topic, has proven to be very confusing. 

Whoops, already I've proven myself wrong..."

Conventional loans are governed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (if you recognize those federal agency names) and a portfolio loan is governed by the bank (their own portfolio of money). 

In terms of partners, my friends seem to be too busy buying engagement rings or renting swanky downtown lofts right now, and it's proven difficult to find someone willing or able to start this with me.  

Should I go with FHA since they are more proven and used in the investing community and possible get into my house hack quicker?

Should I go with FHA since they are more proven and used in the investing community and possible get into my house hack quicker?

Should I go with FHA since they are more proven and used in the investing community and possible get into my house hack quicker?

(I always pay my credit cards in full every month, and I recognize the riskiness of this strategy, also not sure if opening a new card would result in too much of a ding on my credit.)

You'll need a local bank that will recognize your value and give you the loan and the risk is higher because in 5 years the economy might be totally different and when that balloon payment is due you could find yourself in a bind. 

The BRRRR strategy has proven to be really helpful for many investors as a road map for success.