I have no investment experience, only stock market and IRA’s, but I hope to learn a lot from professionals on this forum.

Readers are advised to seek professional advice.

My lease requires professional carpet cleaning, which would cost more than $500 for a home of that size.Yes, it's reasonable to reduce the cost because she was such a long-term tenant.

You should consult a tax professional for an answer based on your unique situation, this is not tax advise just general information.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Most professionals will recommend a separate LLC for every $1 million in assets but I don't think that's necessary.

To properly evaluate the condition and determine the cost of renovations, always have a professional inspection done before making a purchase.4.

Make sure to prepare a professional proposal, highlight your STR track record, and be transparent with your financial projections.

Key Factors for a Good Seller-Financed DealCash Flow: Rental income should exceed monthly payments (PITI) by at least 1.25–1.5x.Purchase Price: Compare to ARV and market value for fair pricing and equity potential.Interest Rate: Aim for competitive rates; higher rates must still allow positive cash flow.Amortization/Balloon Terms: Favor longer amortization and align balloon payments with your exit strategy.Down Payment: Lower upfront costs reduce risk but should meet the seller's expectations.Flexibility: Seek no prepayment penalties and fair late-payment clauses.Property Condition: Ensure the property’s condition matches terms through inspections.Seller Motivation: Assess the seller’s willingness to negotiate favorable terms.Exit Strategy: Have a clear plan for refinancing or payoff at term end.Portfolio Fit: Ensure the deal aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.Vetting multiple deals and consulting professionals is crucial to making sound decisions.

If you’re interested in investing here, I’d encourage you to speak with a knowledgeable local real estate professional or lender to get accurate guidance.