I'm a pretty handy guy but this would be outside of my realm, but my experience helps me understand how much this type of improvement should cost.Improvements: remodel kitchen and bathroom, paint interior, fix exterior scafolding.How should I go about finding a contractor?

House needs some Interior Cosmetic Work, Wood Fence Repairs and some Plumbing Work.I want to turn and run, but I recently heard where there is a Problem, there is Opportunity.I thought this might be an interesting Case Study.Thanks for the Ideas.If they owe $180k on a $210k property and its a year+ behind then they probably owe taxes and other bills as well.

Also, focus on 2 years of job/income stability.Section 8: This is the Property Class S8 was designed for.

Michigan offers tax credits and breaks for development projects, especially in designated areas like Opportunity Zones.

It just takes good design.

A garage conversion, however, may not be subject to the same level of scrutiny.Parking Considerations – Parking is becoming increasingly valuable, especially with the rise of high-density micro-units that often lack designated parking.

Did anyone advise you, mentor you ,on how to find and vet an interior decorator?

You'll have a bigger footprint to add cool design elements and offer more amenities to guests. 

So you would either need to learn a lot about how to be an awesome STR operator and you would probably need to put into your home $20,000 to $100,000 in adding furnishings, design, and adding amenities to make the property desirable.

Please note the information provided below is a layman's definition designed to provide a basic understanding for the general audience.