If there are lease violations, mention them-you not having a key to access the unit WITH proper notice or in case of emergency is one of them.I'd also tell the tenant that they are clearly not happy there, so finding a new place is in their best interest as well and as they have several months, they should have lots of options.

Albany, Syracuse, Utica, OH, PA, etc.) for cashflow.The challenge in these markets is that demand is through the roof, and many properties either sell at the asking price or above the asking price (Suffolk's sale price average was 1.5% ABOVE the asking price).If I were in your shoes, I'd explore local and remote multi-family options before considering the mid-term rental route.All the best!

There are DSCR lending options in your personal name.

Two best options are house hack or sell and acquire a 1031 property.

Many opt for other investing methods in their SDIRA like private lending, crypto, private equity...anything except collectibles and life insurance.Note that a Solo 401k is exempt from UBIT on leveraged real estate so if you have self employment activity and no full time employees save for you and your spouse you should consider the Solo K as an option. 

Any insight into the kind of options we may have for something like this and how qualification for a small hotel differs from residential conventional loans would be extremely helpful.

Cleveland almost seems like the best option because of the affordability and rental demand, but worries me due to the high property taxes and lack of population and economic growth.

Financing & Loans: What are the best loan options for short-term rentals?

I selected Lewiston for the post as I didn't see an Augusta option, but I do work all over the state.It was my family's property management business that brought me to Maine and sparked my interest in and passion for helping investors achieve their goals. 

Hard money lender/DSCR - both are good options.