Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

Oh, let me count the reasons, stark and clear,Why in the Rockies, dreams might disappear.Firstly, time's dance, a tango unforeseen,Delays and setbacks, patience in between.Secondly, budgets shift in mountain air,A treacherous venture, costs rise with care.Like winds that howl, a financial plight,Draining pockets in the mountain's height.Thirdly, expertise, a crucial call,A craft refined to prevent the fall.In rocky realms, build cautiously,For seasoned skill shall guide to victory.Oh, let me count the ways, with wisdom's might,To pause the dream, build in clearer light.Where were you CountTheWaysGPT when I needed you?

Jax is about 2 hours from me but may be worth the trip to connect.

The number is ticking up but Ohio is still fine in vast majority of cases - anything over loan balance of $110,223 (2024 limit) doesn't apply - since most DSCR lenders have minimums around $100k loan amount, barely affects thingshttps://com.ohio.gov/divisions-and-programs/financial-institutions/consumer-finance/guides-and-resources/loan-prepayment-penalty-and-adjustment#:~:text=Effective%20January%201%2C%202024%2C%20no,loan%20of%20less%20than%20%24110%2C223.

We try to keep it simple, and provide examples in the guide for people that are not sure what counts and what does not.

It might be wise to get an attorney now while you can take in some rental money to pay him/her to guide you through your options.   

Chris Ramsey sells a guide/ coaching on the topic of contractor garages.

I recommend you print, study, and highlight the HUD guide: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PA/documents/HUDAsstAnimalN...You should also check with a local HUD office to see if they have any additional guidance they can provide you.Keep in mind, not everyone is subject to Fair Housing requirements and you may be exempt from allowing the ESA! 

Here's a guide that describes what good cash flow looks like and how to analyze a property.https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rental-property-cash-flow...

Working with a lender who does a lot of VA loans will also be useful in this situation as they can help guide you based on their past experiences with foreclosures in the area and appraiser's.