It should apply, as a veteran myself, I have a soft spot for other vets using their VA loan to get started in real estate (it is how I got started, and it is easily the greatest loan product available). 

I know this thread is from 10+ years ago, but has anyone used this loan product? 

There is a product you can use on flooring that works well (rejuvenate)-try that first.For most things it is the actual cost (eg cleaning) or depreciated value (eg flooring replacement). 

Just trying to see if anyone knows of another product out there. 

Credit unions lack product selection and lender experience.

To deduct expenses, you should document the damage with photos (before and after cleaning) and keep receipts for any cleaning services or products you purchase.

Product/price wise. 

I’ve personally met some lenders and financial professionals with interesting products at local networking events, and it’s a great reminder of how important it is to connect with people in the community.

Production returns to US from off-shore, labor rate rises.

On the other hand, I cannot ignore the folks here marketing their DSCR HELOAN products; that number has increased.The underlying situation (obvious to you and me) is that there were historically low interest rates, followed by inflation and equity creation...and folks who want to tap into the equity without displacing their first mortgage.