As an investor, if comps tend to harm me more than help, then how do I make sure I'm making a good investment if I shouldn't use the comps around the house?

If its a DSCR loan it is less relevant whereas a bridge loan may look harder at your current financials to make sure you can afford the loan. 

I'm not sure if I'm making too much of this but my concern is that if I was the one looking for a property in the area:- I would discard the property without looking at it because the competition has higher ratings.- If I still look at it, I would discard it because why take the risk on a bad sofa when I can rent a similar property without such comment.- Once we get more great reviews, the influence of that one will reduce but we have to make sure it doesn't prevent us to get bookings in the first place!

I'd pay it & chalk it up to lesson learned.

I’ve learned the hard way that a little miscommunication can lead to big headaches.

I'm sure there's other stuff you'll want to factor in - what businesses are moving to and from each areas. 

My wife and I have one rental unit and are trying to move toward our next property, but still are trying to learn more and find additional ways to make some side income to speed the process.

It’s a bit risky unless you’re sure you can replace the funds, but it could work for short-term needs.4.Roll into a 401(k) and Take a Loan: If you have access to a 401(k) plan (Or can start one for a business you run), you could roll your IRA into that plan and take a loan against it.

That means learning how to vet a manager.

Sure, the house may look incredible, but you'll never see the return for that incredible rehab on the sale.