We have our own design team, contractors, and real estate agency under one roof, which saves time, cuts costs, and improves communication across projects.

We get just as frustrated because the system is a bit "broken":(I believe the team is in communication with you about your options - just be sure to also let us know your choice to secure the property to deter squatters as cost-effectively as possible.

Obviously I want to keep my costs low but still want to spring for amenities that would give me a competitive edge compared to other rentals.

Always calculate the cost of failure.  

The proforma's would have been accurate but, what they didn't allow for, is the turnover cost between renters that left excessive damage.

It provided loss of use coverage and high liability limits but at less than 50% the cost of the quote I got from Proper.

What's your LIVING cost while living there? 

Quote from @Brandon Croucier: The loans are available but nobody wants to do them.There always seems to be something wrong with the properties, as lenders we just can't make enough $ for our time.9/10 Borrowers also complain about the "excessive fees" for the loan amount.If you are okay with paying 8k in closing costs then the loan is available. 

You do that then you could have a lot of cash available to finance your next purchase and perhaps renovation costs as well.

The question to ask is:  Is my housing cost better by househacking vs renting.