I used a HELOC to cover the down payment, appraisal gap, and furniture, allowing me to enter the STR market without depleting cash reserves.

Which translates to, "I can't afford to really do this, let me spread the risk."

While home prices have cooled slightly from their peak, affordability remains a significant barrier.According to the National Association of Realtors, homes in the U.S. spent an average of 36 days on the market in January 2025, a slight increase from last year but still well below historical norms.

Focus on key areas first (like floors, walls, kitchen, or bathroom), which may help you handle the costs more gradually, even if it means moving in furniture or updating fixtures down the line.Also, since the tenant left it in rough shape, be sure to document all the damage (photos, receipts) in case you decide to pursue reimbursement through their security deposit or in court.

I knew that the property would be easy to sell to another investor or owner occupant, as it was affordable and a 3BR/2BA of 1,650SF so it checks the boxes for many prospective buyers.

Looking for suggestions on any specific building materials, fixtures, accessories, furniture, and tech for a STR.  

Note: I say this also assuming you can afford the negative cash flow, but if you cannot, then get out as soon as you can. 

People who can afford a property like that will buy a home themselves instead of renting(majority of the time).

it was what I could afford at the time.

There is demand for it and demand in this area for affordable housing, in a tourist area where plenty of people have vacant, second/third homes for seasonal fishing and hunting.