Or, from a business perspective, much better to use that time and energy to create a STR management business instead of arbitraging.  

We are in the middle of major infrastructure and RE growth (res and comm) and need to know how best to handle the property we are on from both a short time and potential long term investment perspective.

I've helped multiple investors over the years in this exact situation and while it is definitely more difficult to sell a property with tenants in place, it does happen all the time!

Buy good quality things once rather than poor quality and pay multiple times to replace it.

If you sue, and have to "prove" that the neighbor was negligent, then that would likely need to consist of multiple “written” communications from you, the city, or an arborist to your neighbor stating that you/they feel the tree in question is diseased, appears to be dead/dying, is overgrown and posing a potential threat to your property, etc.

I've asked lender multiple times if there is any way to avoid it and they answer is a consistent NO.

It’s always good to shop around or even negotiate a flat fee if you plan on doing multiple deals. 

I have also been told by multiple people that I should create an LLC or Trust. 

It can be easier than cold outreach, especially if you offer them guaranteed rent and hassle-free management.Also, marketing can really help you stand out—whether it’s through listing on multiple platforms, building a solid website, or using social media for direct bookings.

For those that rely on traditional methods and personal experience, I can understand this perspective.