I converted my STR back in December to avoid the newly increased Hotel Occupancy Tax (9% monthly) and to cut out my STR PM (10%/monthly).

As the prime rate gets cut, your HELOC rate (if variable) would come down. 

Are you thinking government spending is going to actually get cut and inflation was just a flash in the pan? 

then u must have an established relationship with them bc most would just cut you out.  

For us, we do batch showings instead of individualized showings; it cuts down on labor cost of having constant showings and it actually incentivizes competitions among the "applicants". 

The main issue with rental basement is water if it has water issue usually it is a simple fix .Clean gutters ,discharge gutter  water away 10" away from foundation, make sure you foundation soil is slopped away from it .If you need to buy soil get a clay mix .Cut back any tree too close to the foundation look at the drip line that's how far the limbs are out from the tree .If all that is done still has water buy a sump pump  carry the water to day light away from foundation 10" to 15" .

For whatever reason (I suspect to cut cost and time because they were behind) they did not build a retaining wall like they did for the other five properties they built at this time.

If the cabinets are touching the floor, I'd say put the cabinets in first and this way you know exactly where you need cut the flooring to ensure a 1/4inch gap between the lvp and the foot of the cabinet. 

Until Fed begins to cut rates I’ve found alternative lenders in some cases to be competitive with banks on construction debt when considering the totality of factors (rate, leverage, depository relationships and pre- payment penalties).

This has been discussed alot on here.Some people seem fine with no cable.I have nice vacation rentals and provide an easy way to watch live sports, news etc.I provide cable channels or you tube TV.In my listings I state up front that I provide cable channels because I'm not cheap that if other people won't provide this what else are they cutting corners on?