rental property investing

[Walter A. Ferman]

Hi my name is Walter. I am new to investing into rental properties. I am dedicated to buying SFR and/or up to 4 unit properties that cash flow, as we all look for when it comes to rentals.

I reside in Miami, Fl but have my eyes in the Orlando FL market. I have dedicated my time at one point to property managing, leasing consultant, Maintenance, birddog, wholesaling, and crunching up lots of numbers on Zillow, Redfin, Loopnet etc.. for self educational purposes and really just getting the time and practice in to sharpen up my skills.  

Since being new to this, lenders I have had conversations with, all tell me I need to have work history, in order to purchase properties. Now, I am no expert but I know that there are loop holes around that. Work history is what I lack in. Credit is great and I would prefer OPM. Any advice, guidance on what to focus on at the moment in order for me to go on to the next step and acquire my first property? Should I keep looking at deals if I come across a smoking deal do I present it to a investor or a loan officer and see if i can get pre approved, what do you guys think? 

Thank you!

-Walter