If that's what you're really after I would start with the basics of what kind of bank loans either residential or commercial are available to you - not saying this is the best option, but it's a good place to start.

Bonus - the interest on the loan is tax deductible!

Are you able to go there in person to build your network? 

In our commercial loans we still had 1 to 2 years on our 5 year balloon periods.  

Give me a shout if you'd like a rate quote for your DSCR loan.

Personally, I'd go with the As-Is scenario.

I do not know how they are handling new customers verse the Midland existing customers.Regarding the customer service it seems the people I dealt with are still employed and only my "personal rep" as it were, was promoted and another took her place.

Other than paying for an appraisal or BPO (and maybe a credit report), you should not pay a lender anything until your loan funds.

My personal opinion: he's not the only one "doing it right" but he's definitely on the very short list of those that are.Just my .02note: I don't participate in his deals.

While you work on that, you could also explore creative financing options like DSCR loans or partnerships to fast-track your first STR.