Despite common advice, paint has changed a lot in recent history, including finishes.Satin is great for hiding defects, but also giving a more elevated look.

Then you can read a more in-depth book like The Book On Rental Property Investing by Brandon Turner or The Unofficial Guide to Real Estate Investing by Spencer Strauss.2.

Starting with a more traditional approach for your first rental property might be wiser to gain experience and save gradually.

Sometimes you can find someone that is willing to sell to you at a discount since they are tired of owning it, and want to use the money to focus on a more passive investment.

I went with a more expensive hydrogen peroxide system. 2 months seems solid. 

We are looking for a more cabin feel. 

Considering your equity and cash reserves, exploring alternative financing options like traditional mortgages or partnerships might provide a more balanced approach to acquiring your investment property while mitigating risk.

I recently have turned the day-to-day operation of that business over to new hands and am stepping back to a more administrative role.

There's always a deal to be had somewhere.The point above about house hacking when you're highly leveraged being a more long-run game makes sense to me. 

For a more distressed property, you could look into an FHA 203k rehab loan.