I guess that it's true that good things come to those who wait, or at least are patient.

And maybe that is true, but if he has not actually done it, I would be very skeptical.  

It is true that it could take up to 5 months to get permits approved but we haven’t seen any issues with materials.

Is it true that these 10% down second home loans are harder to come by now? 

Quote from @John Malone: @Ian Tyndall there is no such thing as “STR REPS Status” to be clear.https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/530/topics/1056436-clearing-up-confusion-on-tax-treatment-of-short-term-rentals True.

If there is a true interest in the property, we find out what we need to know.

Is that true?

If the statements are true encourage as desired.  

In fact I'd bet the opposite is true as the cheaper houses will have more issues come up in inspection and attract a class of buyer who is more likely to have issues come up with the mortgage. 

True , sargassum is an issue in Punta Cana and it is being managed.