Ok, I currently have 2 properties paid off in my portfolio, so I refi'd one property and bought another sfh in cash with that refi'd money. 

I run a small portfolio.

What strategies do you use to scale a SFH portfolio? 

@Ian GilliganYou could speak to a local bank or credit union about doing a portfolio loan and bring the equity partner in to fund the down payment etc. 

I invest out of state and most portfolio lenders want me to be local.

My wife and I are looking to expand our portfolio, and in hopes go full time real estate investing.

George is that you can look for a vacation rental as well as an option for your portfolio.

I would call around, ask your hard money lender if they have any references for portfolio lenders that are familiar with financing deals like yours.

I own residential rental properties in Frisco, TX and Brazil and I am looking to increase my rentals portfolio in the DFW metroplex.

I bought my first home and started house hacking about a year ago now and I'm ready to take the next step, however, I think if I am able, I would like to bypass increasing SFHs in my portfolio and move straight to Apartment Complexes of 6-12 units in the Greater Tampa Bay area or even Orlando/Miami.