Purchased for $139,999 using a mix of cash and hard money, we revamped it with modern updates, including a new kitchen, flooring, and fresh paint.The property rented for three years, generating steady cash flow of $450/month.

With seller's permission: Unscrew the shower head and put it on shower floor.

• Should utilities, internet, or services like snow removal/lawn care be included, or not?

Hi @Augusta OwensFirst off thank you for your service! 

I hired Jenny Yi to design our latest STR in person, she demanded that I pay the full amount of her services upfront, $7,500, which I thought was strange as we are used to paying half upfront and half once it's completed, but proceeded anyway because a couple of people recommended her.

@Augusta Owens first, thank you for your service!

The property seems to be in good shape and will requirecosmetic rehab.  5/3 house 2600 SQFTWe will need a new AC, Kitchen upgrade, bathroom upgrade, flooring, painting, andcarpet upstairs.  

A debt service loan is popular for that step.

The ways around that are to build a business around supporting their voucher and inspection program and spending no small amount of effort ensuring they are smoothly servicing your rentals. 

If you are trying to come up with a way to finagle the occupancy requirements while using an amazing loan (that you earned based on your service) like a VA, I would say you are starting off on the wrong foot.