He didn’t just answer my questions—he showed me how this game is played at a much higher level.

You need to remember that, hopefully, this is a long-term play for you, so work with a trusted STR designer (I have great recommendations), and spend the money upfront so you can be the most successful in your area.

You avoid the tax hit, and still get the use of 75% of the equity if you do a cash out refi - (but high interest rates sort of play against that to some degree presently… but you could alway refi again down the line if rates dropped.  

Roof lines, window styles, and masonry/siding all play into this natural flow, and the biggest mistake you can make when designing your flips is not following the flow that is already present!

Reverse engineer the list of most recently acquired hospitality business built or bought within the 30-40mile radius, You’d be puzzled at how much capital they have to play with.Crowdfunding or Real Estate Syndication: Platforms dedicated to real estate investment might have investors interested in backing a boutique hotel project.

Quote from @Chris Seveney: @Jay HinrichsGreat points - yes many are from here on BP such as a bearded guy, a guy who threatened to sue a LP and still doesn’t respond according to his investors, two other “note funds” one investing in skidrow homes and the other in broadway plays….

There are many good locations - I'd suggest that you play around with the "Market Finder" tool at the top of the screen here, included with your pro membership. 

Watching and playing an active role in the transition from primarily 2nd liens to 1st and 2nd liens, laid the foundation for me partnering with GSP REI.

When you have a proven track record of performance, then you can play with other people's money. 

I also think, the flat rate ppl are playing to a race to the bottom.