Regardless of the particular "wow" shot you choose, professional photography is a must.

With that said, choosing your bank based on customer service relationships and business credit products should be a priority. if you’re looking for a bank that offers great service and lower wire fees, I’d suggest starting with NFCU.

If you choose to move forward, I recommend having a backup plan in case Hawaii outright bans STR.

Power washing the exterior, repairing the driveway, and painting the front door.

For LTRs, prioritize markets with population growth and strong job markets.Wherever you choose, work with an investor-friendly agent who knows the local market and can help you analyze deals.

On the advice of the fireplace guy who did our last cleaning/inspection, we sanded down the brick inside and painted it with the high heat black paint, and it states in the lease that they may use a fireplace-style candelabra if they'd like, but any other use will trigger all the rules in the Fireplace Addendum.   

For example for a few holes in the walls they have someone paint an entire unit and take their spread.

You are better off finding a solid property that needs light cosmetic work (paint, floors, or maybe even a kitchen or bathroom remodel), buy it at a decent discount and put 25% down or more (this is when you get best rate terms). 

Property was sitting on market and needed light updates (roof, flooring, paint) but was in a great area that allows STRs giving me multiple options when deciding on rental strategy How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

@John Cooper when you or someone you care about is living in the home it is important to be extra vigilant in choosing tenants.