Assuming you no longer work at the company sponsoring your 401(k) you could look to move it into a self-directed account. 

If you’re tackling major work like a full bathroom gut, expect it to stretch out, but with a solid plan, you'll stay organized and avoid delays.

(although, with the new smart phone technology, they do require gmail accounts, as such, sending from that account from your phone is fine, but you should be sending to people who already know you have a real email account.

Once you have a shortlist, sign up for an account with each one and test them extensively to see how they function.

It's critical to do your research and determine which platform is best suited for marketing yourself or your organization as a landlord.

You are required to file a complete and accurate return, which means reporting the income that you earned along with atleast the direct expenses that you incurred on your rental.There are two comflicting forces - Your tax accountant wants to be aggressive with deductions because it will entitle you to paying less taxes(now or in the future).Your lender wants to see as much income as that will increase your Debt to Income Ratio(DTI).The good thing is that you can speak with your lender about 'one time expenses', that were only incurred in that year and are not reoccuring. 

@Lisa Mallory Did you get a tax accountant?

@Aubrey Adams-Thanks for the post / question -I would recommend developing a hypothetical plan  ( purchase price / loan amt needed ) and get pre approved ..this process is free and it will help get you organized and also to educate you  in many ways ..if you never end up buying - no worries and no costs have been wasted 

. - What driving factors should I take into account when l'm looking for an up n' coming hot markets?

Only thing I can think to do is call Vrbo or Airbnb and explain the situation and see if they would allow you to create another account that maybe isn't active to use until the other accounts are shut down?