Traditional deals often don’t excite investors—offering $200/month in cash flow isn’t very compelling.But with co-living, you can offer 5X the returns, making it much easier to secure funding.Now, instead of asking an investor to put up a 20% down payment for $200/month cash flow, you can pitch them a 5% down investment yielding $1,000+/month—a much more attractive deal.Why Co-Living is the FutureCo-living isn’t just another strategy—it’s a high-demand, high-cash-flow, lower-risk investment model that aligns with today’s rental market trends.

I liked the tenant, school is starting back etc, I told them they could pay first month and security deposit and I would let them have the rest of August for free.

Yes, it's secured and if you have to foreclose you can sell and recoup at least some of your investment.

I’m hitting a bit of a roadblock when it comes to funding.I’m eager to start building a portfolio, but being young and not having substantial savings yet means I’m looking for advice on how to secure capital to get started.

I would look FAR AND WIDE for someone to do an investment property HELOC -OR- go to a bunch of banks and CUs (including who you bank with now) to find someone to provide an unsecured (or secured if you have other collateral) LOC to get rid of the high int debt.

Renter's Insurance is a cheap date for the tenant; it protects their security deposit and assets. 

It’s inexpensive to provide but can make a big impact.Comfortable Bedding: Investing in high-quality mattresses, pillows, and linens improves the guest experience and leads to better reviews, which can boost occupancy rates.Smart TV or Streaming Services: Offering Netflix, Hulu, or similar services is a low-cost way to enhance guest entertainment and stay competitive.Fully Stocked Kitchen: A well-equipped kitchen with basic appliances and utensils appeals to families and long-term guests, saving them money on dining out.Dedicated Workspace: If your property caters to remote workers, adding a small desk and ergonomic chair can set your listing apart.Outdoor Spaces: If your property allows, an outdoor seating area, fire pit, or hot tub can significantly increase your nightly rate and attract more bookings.Energy-Efficient Features: Guests appreciate eco-friendly options like LED lighting, smart thermostats, or solar panels, especially in eco-conscious markets.Keyless Entry: A smart lock is a relatively small investment but offers convenience and security, which many guests value.If you’re deciding on amenities to add, it’s always a good idea to research your local market.

I noticed that the previous owner let them pay half the security deposit and the other half later, which is a red flag.

It isn't having paid off properties that offers security, there are still taxes, insurance, maintenance and management involved. 

Assuming plans are needed to secure a permit.