Julian,You cannot get a mortgage brokers license without being a loan officer or in some cases a branch manager.

The property is in a B-class neighborhood, and while I’m comfortable managing coliving setups, I’m curious about any potential nuances around refinancing and insurance for this type of property.Are there specific loan types or lending policies I should know when refinancing a rent-by-the-room property?

What you have described is Property Manager that has a Lease Option on the property. 

He has tons of knowledge about that area and manages a lot of STRs there.

Yes, our property management company handles STR, MTR, and LTR units.

I am proposed GP with development / management experience, however my liquidity is tied up in a separate development initiative. 

What was your plan to manage the property especially when you are not living in that area/ country.

Quote from @Collin Hays: I don't manage short-term any more, but can't you include this in a written rental agreement that the guest signs at the time of booking?

Hi Michael,Finding the right CPA is crucial for managing your investments effectively.

Try Rent Caps- he used to manage my partners units in Gary and did the rehab.