Sponsorships / NIL money will definitely help for a downpayment, but a lender likely will want to see w2 income to qualify for a mortgage.  

just double checked my lender is now 80% LTV for short term rentals only 85% for long term rentals

Great tenant that always pays on time - been there for 5 years Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Or this is a non issue if insurance coverage is not taxable.Many other thoughts and input.

(VA lender) Total collected rent would be at about $67200.

Having a non-slip surface around the pool like grippy porous limestone tiles instead of a slippery surface helps a ton IMO. 

However, some lenders may have requirements regarding the property's condition or completion status.

funding land flippers as a capital partner is my latest thing.. since finding lenders for land is very difficult. continue to fund small developers soft costs for % ownership.and continue to be capital partner for flippers and BRRR folks

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Since you are on the Austin forum and stated you are from Texas, I would be happy to get on a phone call or have coffee with you to help you focus on the task ahead.However, let me remind you, I am neither a real estate agent, or lender.