I'm ready to learn and eager to find/team with an experienced mentor in the Metro Detroit area.  

@Dan Brewer as I'm sure you're well aware, people aren't in this because they don't understand it.

I believe in putting in the work—1,000 hours of research, testing, and learning—before offering advice, and I’m excited to tap into the collective wisdom of this community to refine my approach.Here’s where my head is at: I’m considering strategies like short-term rentals (Airbnb) for higher cash flow, long-term rentals for steady income, or even creative options like house hacking or partnerships to stretch the funds further.

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!

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. 

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.

Lessons learned?

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

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

But yes, I always make sure I walk the property first.