Portfolio Lending Question

[Theo Hicks]

I have a full-time job and my initial reason for acquiring a multi-unit property was in order to live for free aka house hack and, more importantly, to write off the expenses (renos, mortgage, etc) in order to get more taxes back at the end of the year.

When "pitching" a portfolio lender, does it hurt you if you have been breaking even or reporting a loss for the above stated purposes? 

In other words, would they ignore the fact that you are breaking even/reporting a loss because you are "sheltering" your income for tax purposes? 

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

@Joey Palmer