Often, they don't need to be moved in by the time of the appraisal, but if you have a signed lease, first month's rent receipt, and a receipt of the security deposit then the lender will often treat the property as occupied which can help increase your max loan amount in some cases.

Centerpoint is very popular because of the price points.

Until this happens, the REI is on the negative side, and NCF just increases the amount of Cash needed to recover, and if the NCF continues, that recover will NEVER happen. 

High-end furniture, premium mattresses, and a full kitchen setup can increase costs, but prioritizing durability and guest comfort—such as a high-quality king bed, sturdy sofa, and reliable appliances—can enhance the guest experience and drive better reviews.From a tax perspective, furnishings and appliances are depreciable assets, but how you deduct them depends on cost and timing:Items under $2,500 per unit can be expensed immediately under the de minimis safe harbor election (timing of when placed in service may result in the need to capitalize).Larger purchases above $2,500 typically must be depreciated over 5 or 7 years using MACRS.Bonus depreciation (60% in 2024, 40% in 2025) allows accelerated write-offs for qualifying property, including furniture and appliances.Section 179 may allow immediate deductions for certain furnishings, but eligibility depends on taxable income.Since you plan to materially participate in 2025, STR losses may offset W-2 or other active income.

Tenants lease expired, so I offered a new lease with a $25 increase. 

This allows us to increase our active cashflow to then cherry pick the long term holds we would like as well as work faster.

It was a wild time for subject to transactions while interest rates were increasing, property values were increasing, and lenders were stuck and could not call loans due when a property was sold or transferred.

This can result in a significant increase in property taxes, especially if the property has appreciated in value over the years.The ATI exemption allows property owners to apply for a reduction in the assessed value of their property for tax purposes.

For me, I could handle the increase in cost and still pay much less than If I got a 4/2 SF.

Any tips on increasing income and lowering expenses?