@Alex Owens I know seller credits are 100% legal.

You can also apply for 2 or more credit builder cards (these often have low limits, and are a great way to quickly boost and build credit).

Fix your credit and make some money.

Because it’s going to cost at least $50 in credit card charges on a $2k/mo rental..Are you allowed to charge extra for credit card payments, say 5% surcharge so people are discouraged?

-- AND the practical thing: Clean up my credit rating by (a) increasing available credit (without any hard pulls), and (b) clearing as much open debt as possible to reduce credit utilization (and then keeping it clear!).

with 780 credit and a five-year pre-payment this seems high.

Hey Steve, sounds like you two have built a really solid foundation — strong W2 income, excellent credit, low leverage, and hands-on rehab experience.

Fill out an application or complete credit/background check, no. 

Quote from @Jimmy Rojas: Im a first time homebuyer, i been 1099 for 10yrs now, total monthly expenses $1500 , no debt, bring in $5k a month, experian credit score 745, looking to borrow no more than $200k maybe less, ideally $15k down payment , %6 or less interest,  monthly payments $1500 or less, what are my options and what route should i take. 

For the fastest close:Local banks / credit unions (portfolio lenders).They can close in 2–3 weeks and are way more flexible on DSCR, condition, and occupancy than big commercial lenders.20–25 percent down5–6.5 percent interest depending on market20–25 year amortizationThey’ll usually let you roll some of the rehab into the loan if you can show bidsA strong W2 plus existing rentals puts you in a great position with them.2.