If you inherited the property from a deceased family member selling is one of the best options due to the "stepped-up basis" saving on taxes.

But no, hard money isn’t your only option.

A tax-free option to get out of a problem property is a wonderful thing to have.

A land contract sale within the IRA is an option but requires careful compliance and may trigger UBTI or UDFI.

House hacking is a great way for you to reduce your housing expenses while building equity, and the VA loan’s zero down payment option gives you a huge advantage in getting started with real estate investing.When looking for B and C-class neighborhoods in Cincinnati, the key is to balance affordability with safety and long-term potential.

Could you just do a rent with the option to purchase?

I am looking to secure some sort of money to scale my fix and flip business and this seems like a good option.

Hi Nana, you should have a bunch of options that have friendly rates and good programs for a five unit DSCR I would recommend talking with an experienced broker who can help compare rates and programs amongst a wide variety of lenders. 

High high level - LLC will typically be an option for DSCR Loans (or bank other types of financing), while conventional will require you to borrow in an individual capacity, but there are pros and cons of each.BRRRR Loans: What Are the Options, and How Do DSCR Loans Stack Up?

Once you own a few properties, leveraging equity or collateral becomes a smart next step to fuel growth.Here are a few ways to approach it:🔁 Options to Use Existing Properties as Collateral:HELOC or Cash-Out Refi (on current properties)Ideal if LTV is low and rates make senseGives you flexible funds for down payments or rehabCross-CollateralizationSome private lenders or portfolio lenders will let you pledge equity from one property as collateral on the nextCan help minimize or eliminate your cash down paymentPrivate LendingMore flexible than banks, and often fasterGreat for short-term bridge financing or flipsLook for lenders who can structure deals creatively (e.g., equity rollovers, deferred payments)DSCR LoansIf buying rentals, DSCR loans don’t use your W-2 income, just the property’s incomeCan pair well with private funds for down paymentIf you’re exploring non-bank lending routes, I’m a private lender and broker—happy to chat about how we can structure something with less out-of-pocket capital.