Also helping was a relationship with that bank (deposit accounts) and good credit. 

My accountant was charging $100 each which I thought was a little high they are very simple if you have an easy platform .

If you are on cash accounting, yes you could do that.On the other hand, you are ignoring carry-forward losses. 

Second to cash in the bank is HELOC cash because you can use it however you want (you just have to see it already in an account).

I learned how much an escrow account check matters to your overall mortgage payment.

I learned how much an escrow account check matters to your overall mortgage payment.

Many banks handling tax escrow accounts for mortgages have mistakenly thought there was one tax due twice/year or totally missed one of the taxes.Investors should research the SEV and the Non-Homestead property tax millage rates to project what the property taxes will be after adjustment.

How have they accounted for reserves / contingency when things don't go as planned. 

Things like a website, an email at your domain and credible social accounts (even small things like a profile pic and bio) can show you are a legitimate business.

Account for all costs, including closing fees, holding costs, and repairs.