Any business could do this with their services and the savings would certainly justify the additional effort.But if you take advantage of the new law, wouldn't the renter do the same?

If you buy the existing furniture, it’ll save you time and let you start hosting sooner, especially if the permit comes through quickly.

There are a lot more details that go into two VA loans and the downside but transitioning into a conventional loan on the  investment refinance will save you a lot of frustartion down the road.  

@Eric BilderbackAgree with you, and to your point - if you buy something today that puts you in a stressed out position, you can't / shouldn't count on anything saving you - like a huge jump in rents or a big decrease in rates so can you refinance. 

I have some money in my savings account but not a lot.

You don't need to save up $100K or quit your job today in order to become a successful investor. 

I rented it out to save the house when I move out and I'm out of pocket $1,300 every month towards the mortgage.

And you're right about avoiding weekly travel—sound systems can save you time and stress!

We love North Carolina but we're 20 years from the retirement dream. 

Starting out, I would try to take equity from your primary/another property using a HELOC, borrower against a 401k/retirement account, or partner with someone that has cash.