Use something like https://latchel.com/ and have a backup who can authorize work, maybe leave that same person a credit card (assuming they are trustworthy, like say someone you'd give power of attorney to).

Unless it's high interest credit card debt, don't pay it off. 

Turns out he had 8 credit cards in collections and for minimal amounts of money.

If you plan to marry her and stay together long term, which hopefully is the case as she is a fiance if she has credit card or other high interest debt that will be a better investment than RE. 

This may be resolved by now, just wanted to add that if they pull the "ESA" card (emotional support animal) it sounds like you may be exempt (landlords owning <3 SFH not leased by realtor are exempt). 

I am aware of credit cards but hard money and gap money lenders both require the same thing.

Most of our tenants carry significant dept, often student loans, typically credit cards and personal loans.

Brandon from BP mentions hardmoney loans for rehabs, also mentions credit cards, (I currently have put some repairs on a credit card that has 0% interest until Sept 2019).Estimate ARV: 235,000 with the possibility 300,000+ (with forcing value by adding kitchen and bath to mother-in-law suite in detached garage.)Currently owe $148,500 @ 3.625% 25year IIanNot sure how to move forward with repairs.

We'd also pay off our ~$70k of student loan and credit card debt.

Use a credit card for all business expenses for air miles and easy tracking.