I agree that there are ways but 1) rent ready without value add will be huge cash negative with realistic expense estimates 2) most single unit ADU additions cost more than the value added.  

If I wa outfitting a property right now I would get lower end Samsung.Totally agree with this!

I don't agree with your lender that you have to live in the property if you are using a conventional loan, but depends on what product they are giving you, maybe a work around for that.I would not purchase based solely on what income you can derive from STR.

good luckI completely agree.

If tariffs come into play, or any conflict those products become nonexistent and when we switch to a different country source, they will have tripled or quadrupled.

AS a PML / JV partner I welcome pre pays :) Agreed! 

FYI the account would be US based, not outside the country.

Oh yes, I agree. 

. - We also have S8 tenants move because the owner won't agree to repaint, replace carpeting, etc. - that were new when the S8 tenant moved in 1-2 years ago.Another challenge of finding S8 tenants is many EXPECT you to waive application fees and security deposits. 

@Vhernadette Sasing, I would agree with the others that have mentioned that you find a Turnkey provider that can take care of you through the proses.