So thats kind of the standard operating procedures in those markets and nothing really sells for full list price..

Make sure you understand their timeline for funding—speed can be crucial for flips—and their experience with similar projects.Look for a lender with clear communication, transparency, and flexibility.

From what i understand, the space heaters are a big fire hazzard. does your insurance allow them?

Many people start out active because they want exposure to real estate and don't know that you can start out passive - you can effectively hire the asset manager and supply capital to the investment.You can have great success as an active or a passive investor - but it is important to understand the difference and to select whichever option matches your skills and resources the best.Good luck!

A good way to get an understanding of how to get into STR is :STRATEGY: Start Up Guide to Short Term Rental Investing 

Verifying last 2 years of rental history and income extremely important to find the “best of the worst”.Make sure you understand the Class of properties you are looking at and the corresponding results to expect.The City of Detroit has 183 Neighborhoods we’ve analyzed.PM us if you’d like to discuss this logical approach in greater detail!

The payments tend to be lower than a standard cash out refi, so if you end up in a tight cash spot, you have the flexibility to pay less for a bit until you get your bearings again. 

You're smart for recognizing the importance of building relationships...very few wholesalers in my area understand this. 

my understanding is partial payment starts the process all over again.

I don’t understand how you can have 13 rentals that are paid off and a primary residence that is paid off and still need more cashflow.