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

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.

Everyone is correct about having a little extra money in the reserves just in case something happens. 

They will charge extra for any extra work performed, but it could be much more beneficial than tying up that much equity in a partnership with someone you don't know.Also, if you ever do have a partnership, spend the money on the front-end with an attorney to get a sound operating agreement that makes the divorce less messy if it comes to that.

I had to scramble to cover the extra costs and it completely threw off my budget for the investment.Another red flag for me is delayed communication.

That’s a big plus for anyone trying to keep consistent cash flow.But there are cons too: extra paperwork, annual inspections, and generally a bit more red tape.

The lots themselves are located on a State Owned and Enviromentally Protected Lake, would there be extra considerations made?

Many bad renters will offer to pay extra up front as a means of avoiding your screening or skipping to the front of the line ahead of more-qualified applicants.