Pull permits always . 

If you did a full repipe and gutted the entire property then I assume (in all that means) that there were permits pulled and this should have been caught when the inspector did their rough in walk through or atleast the final occupancy inspection. 

But I feel like having the bank connections (to automatically pull in those expenses/revenues) is key to streamlining things.

Adding value to a property and then either selling or refinancing to pull your capital out is a solid way to build momentum, especially if you're okay breaking even on rental income.

That’s if you are on top of everything don’t have to fight insurance for a full payout, have an architect you immediately start working with drafting plans and pulling permits, secure a construction loan, and hire a contractor who prioritizes your construction.

YES, you can get the work done for less than this on occasion, in particular if you are doing some or all of the labor yourself, not pulling permits, or purchasing stolen materials as a starting point. 

I think a HELOC requires a certain LTV before you can pull any equity and 1 year most likely won't be long enough for any real equity to build.I would say.

I have yet to have a guest ask for a refill or mention the quality (I tried to pick a nice-looking, not-too-expensive brand).Be careful with the scents -- I had a run of people pulling out and hiding the scents and one or two people complained that they were scent-sensitive in private notes. 

Do it right, hire the right people, and make sure you have all of your permits correctly pulled.

That allows you to buy under market value, renvoate and then in 6-12 months refinance and pull some cash out.