For this we should conduct regular assessments of our properties to identify opportunities for space optimization.

The property is being charged $8,137.29 in special assessments.

I recommend googling "(City name) comprehensive plan" every city has a city plan that shows where their major commercial projects are heading. 

If they are already investors, they could help you locate / assess deals as well which is a plus as they will want you to be successful to help them be successful.  

I will note, personally, I am a passive investor, as well.I would generally agree with your assessment.  

Ensure that the purchase price, rehab costs, and After Repair Value (ARV) are all reasonable and accurately assessed.

Has someone mentored you on a comprehensive marketing playbook for your STR?

A reserve is unnecessary, but I still keep around $15,000 - $20,000 in my account.The point is, that you should sit down and assess your finances to determine what the worst-case scenario may look like, how much you would need to cover it without impacting your life, and whether you will need to build a reserve. 

Here are some pros and cons of each approach to help you decide:Paying Cash for One Home and Refinancing LaterPros:No Mortgage Payments: You won't have monthly mortgage payments initially, which can reduce financial stress.Equity: You own the home outright, giving you full equity which can be used for refinancing.Lower Costs: No interest payments and possibly lower closing costs compared to having a mortgage.Better Negotiation Power: Cash buyers often have more negotiating power and can close deals faster.Cons:Opportunity Cost: Your cash is tied up in one property, potentially limiting your ability to invest in other opportunities.Refinancing Risks: Future interest rates may be higher, making refinancing more expensive.Market Fluctuations: Property values might decrease, affecting the amount you can refinance.Buying Four Homes with 20% Down on EachPros:Diversification: Owning multiple properties diversifies your investment, reducing risk.Rental Income: Potential rental income from multiple properties can generate cash flow.Appreciation: You benefit from the appreciation of multiple properties.Leverage: Using mortgages allows you to leverage your investments, potentially increasing your return on investment.Cons:Higher Debt: You'll have multiple mortgage payments, increasing your debt and financial obligations.Management: Managing multiple properties can be more complex and time-consuming.Market Risks: Market downturns can affect all properties, amplifying risks.Cash Flow: If rental income is not enough to cover mortgage payments, you could face cash flow issues.Considerations:Financial Stability: Assess your current financial stability and ability to handle mortgage payments and potential vacancies.Market Conditions: Consider current and projected real estate market conditions and interest rates.Investment Goals: Align your decision with your long-term investment goals and risk tolerance.Professional Advice: Consult with a financial advisor or real estate professional to get personalized advice based on your specific situation.If you prioritize lower risk and less debt, paying cash for one home might be the better option.

Our numbers were PP $258,000 ($359,000 Tax assessment),  Rehab $70,000  ARV $400,000    Appraiser AS is $285,000  ARV $350,000    Appraiser cost us $1950,00 because we're in AK The loan so far is as follows......total of $317.296  with a $43,200 hold back for reno, not 70k, $13,489 in fees....8.49% interest and our down payment of $52,000Lots of hoops but I guess we have a Credit Line of $650,000 for 1 year.....I need to find out yet how it works with the next loan, if I need to jump through all the hoops again ?