Is KNOWINGLY increasing a payoff to an amount ABOVE what was technically and verifiably owed illegal for the lender and or borrower to do?

You would ideally want to buy in the downmarket for below market price (around this time of the year since its more of a buyers market) and then sell in spring when values are going to be increased and also have a sellers market (you could sell for above market price).

This tends to occur when the appraiser is unfamiliar with the area, and the area has had a recent rapid increase in property value.  

It's always a plus when you can get your property valuation increased and the tenant pays for the new item, just so long as your downside risk is mitigated, too.Good luck!

Permits are now required for all STRs, with fees increasing as of June 2024.

I double "co-hosters" in most markets are getting 25-30%.If property management interests you I would suggest you become a licensed and insured PM company to increase your credibility. 

You can charge an increased deposit, pet rent, or require the tenant to carry pet insurance. 

I have a feeling that they are going to ask us to meet a reserve price, but I don’t know how much sense it will make to increase my offer.

Days on Market (DOM) since Q3 of last year.Single-family residence values continue rising and are selling for nearly 9% more than last year - National average for home sale price increases is 4% since last year per one of BP's most recent podcasts.Multifamily properties in Queens have sold for a median price nearly 6% above last year, jumping from $1,058,000 in Q3 '24 to $1,120,000 in 2024.Lastly, despite inventory increases, the # of sold properties has declined when compared to last year.

There are going to be three levels of addressing this 1) things you can simply go there and do anytime (pick up pet waste and throw it away) 2) things you can do given proper notice (enter the unit and inspect, repair damage etc) and 3) things you can only do given proper process/procedure (notice to vacate, increase rent etc.)