DIYing the place can help save money, but for someone that doesn't have all the tools and know how, it'll probably take longer and might cost more.

For appealing appraisal, the easiest way is absurd adjustments (and adjustments are often absurd: $10k for a BR when simple query of average 2br vs 3br sold will show value of that extra BR on average, same for bathrooms, etc).  

Tried a simple Google search but was surprised at how thin the options seemed to be.

Which is why I was surprised to receive this response: "That would be a good question for your CPA" when I asked a simple question this tax season.

(Note: Advertising can be word-of-mouth advertising or something as simple as a “FOR RENT” sign with a contact number posted on the property.

There's not really enough information to understand exactly what you're working toward, but here are a few examples of how you could structure a BRRR with a private lender.It could be an equity split with preferrential payment/buyout, a simple interest monthly payment until refinance, a long term partnership or a hybrid of some of these. 

It's also a simple solution, there are new sub-metering systems available for a few hundred bucks.

Create a simple spreadsheet or written list to compare the features of each and identify the ones that align with your requirements.

While it may seem daunting to identify what one should be doing, it is actually quite simple.

A simple barrel septic system I put in myself.