Other option is try to come up with extra money to refi into a long term loan.

It's easy to obtain, costs very little, and doesn't require extra, on-going effort to maintain.

It could be any side-hustle you want just as long as you like it and your able to save some extra $$$.2.

That said, some lenders might be open to negotiations, but you’ll want to be extra careful about the terms.

I personally don't see a problem paying a couple of extra pts for a 1% reduction in the loan but some people I know are very adamant that we shouldn't be paying pts at this time in the game.

I would consider the mini-split an extra amenity and ALSO a BACKUP heat source.

It could be any side-hustle you want just as long as you like it and your able to save some extra $$$.2.

Don't forget to factor for this - upon moveout, we reasonably expect to cashflow around $500/mo, which will allow us to maintain and hold for as long as possible to collect appreciation and yes some extra money toward the next investment. 

It works great for wholesalers who sell the deals to a flipper, so a flipper can reap the rewards by going the extra mile and conducting their own marketing

Likely not, but if you don't mind taking the risk and spending a little extra in taxes (from missing possible deductions or misunderstanding the law) then that's ok.