Upper levels with slanted roof lines cut into living space which is very outdated and much of it becomes deadspace. 

There is no short cut. 

So I'd be doing my best to get the highest possible rent/revenue but without needing or counting on that.What you refer as cut-throat competition exists in every market where you have demand.

Should I just hire a tree service to clear a path and cut the dead tree?

Anyway you cut it they will all want a washer/dryer. 

By the sounds of it you are going to have your work cut out for you. 

There is a range of DSCR lender underwriting policies for "1st time investors" - some don't allow it, some do with no restrictions, and some in the middle (typically cut max LTV by 5% or so and restrict against anything over 4 units)Also - check out these BiggerPockets articles for a ton of info about DSCR loans:DSCR Loans: What Are They And How To Get The Best Termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/...DSCR Loans: How To Use Pro Strategies To Save More And Make Morehttps://www.biggerpockets.com/...Multifamily DSCR Loans: A New High-Impact Loan Option For Real Estate Investors?

Many borrowers think they can “cut out” the middleman (mortgage or loan broker), save some upfront “points” and fees, and go direct to a lender.  

Upon contacting Rent to Retirement, we were told by the rep that Delta "cut off" communication with Rent to Retirement and if we choose to continue with Delta Build, we will have to resolve issues with them ourselves as Rent to Retirement can no longer speak on our behalf.

My uncle has an offer he pays all development fees and then gives the guy who engineers it all 33% gross cut.