Early testing of this new system indicates that it’s a pain to get access to.

I'm just beginning but am considering a bigger commitment in the next five years or so by accessing some or even all retirement funds to buy a building (I'm sure people have thoughts on whether or not that is a good idea!).

In your scenario you'd have a potential tax event on that $200K difference.Here's a creative way to access most of that money tax free however. 

My business has access to AppFolio, but it doesn't seem to communicate with the STR side of things. 

When it comes to AirBnB I have found its location, number of beds then amenities like kitchens and outdoor spaces that attract quality guests and demand higher prices. 

Hard money is expensive.Some questions to ask yourself to assess risk:Do you have access to a reliable contractor who can complete the work on time and stick within a budget?

OK, good luck with that if you have easily accessible assets like a home you don't live in.Meanwhile, what are the odds a term life insurance policy pays out? 

Maybe you want to try your hand in the STR space.

A potential challenge with a HELOCs is they are based on the current appraised value of your home, not the improved value, so you would need to make sure you have enough accessible equity.

The HML covered 100% of the $32,500 rehab budget through drawbacks.Refinance: Post-rehab, I refinanced into a primary mortgage, creating 25.5% equity in the property.Future Financing: I plan to leverage the property with a HELOC to access up to $86,000 in capital for future deals.