Do you collect cash via PayPal/venmo/Zelle and then refund, or use credit card payment process to allow the guest to pay the deposit by credit card?

I know lots of installers don't do it, and I personally prefer the unimpeded look, but anything installed outside of the requirements of the material is probably going to be limited, i.e. the insurance company is not going to pay you because the material was not installed according to flooring requirements. 

However they made it clear that unless we would pay them something unreasonable, they weren’t leaving without a fight.

One thing to think about is if you rent it long term and then sell it, you have to pay capital gains taxes. 

My wife and I have overhauled our personal budget to reflect the 'pay yourself first' approach (allocate in order: income comes in -> invest -> donate -> fixed expenses -> variable expenses -> fun $$).We are looking to see what experienced people generally recommend for a holding tank for that 'invest' allocation while we target our first real estate deal.What financial vehicles have you guys used that works well for this?

In fact, come to the USA and live off of those of us who pay taxes.  

Closing costs - you will have to pay taxes/stamps etc. typically as a seller.4.

When that portion was complete, I could then receive draw money which allowed me to pay my utilities, taxes, and mortgages.

having a local commercial Banker is key I would never go with a national HML for construction.. unless I absolutely had to .. like right now I am at 1/2 point and 7%  for my vertical loans no junk fees and my bank even pays or the appraisals . :)  these are not credit score loans ( I mean I have a credit score) but thats just a formality its all about capital and relationships with your bankers and deposit relationships thats key as well.Yes your relationships with sub contractors will be a huge factor in profitability, both direct and indirect. 

they are a non accredited pay to play orginization.. while they do some nice meet ups and have basic info.. does not mean that any lender that pays to be a member is a better lender than the thousands of us that are not members..