I’m interested in using hard money for a BRRRR or flip project, and I’d like to take the first steps toward making this a reality.

With the internet, there aren't really do overs -- most websites have other websites that grab (legally or illegally) information . . . it is pretty impossible to make anything disappear once you put it online.

For your example, making the basement fully operational as a livable space seems like a great value add.

Whenever possible I attend the inspection and follow the inspector as he conducts the inspection and ask him questions during the process.

Was truly one of the best financial decisions of my life. 

I think the problem stems from your lack of decisiveness, and I'm not saying that as an insult.I'm with Theresa.

It's tempting early on to leverage as much as you can so you can do more deals and keep liquidity, but increased cashflow especially with PMI will make you sleep a lot better at night.

We’ve also had increases submitted in Sep 2023 that still haven’t been processed.   

Just make sure to vet them carefully.Overall, my advice is to keep things simple for your first deal.

There are other areas that make good STR's that are overlooked by most in favor of the trendy areas.