If you need a referral to an excellent agent who works exclusively with STRs in that specific market, I can refer ours  I'm an agent, but yes I am in contact w/ one out there familiar w/ STRs. thanks for asking. 

I am definatley going to keep these posts for future reference.

Many of us will gladly share our contacts - helping you AND that allows us to provide value to our contractors by referring them extra business.

Bonus points if they can refer you to reputable contractors in the area. 

I want to be sure I’m understand what your point of reference is.

Didn’t know how to post the link so I’ll just reference it.  

Any time I hear someone refer to "cold calling", I cringe as I put myself in the position of the person receiving the call or email and know that I will almost never buy/agree to anything from someone cold calling me.What I like to do when I'm in these situations, is try what I refer to as "warm calling".

For reference I own exactly one handful (5) SFH  rentals in my hometown, all have been purchased in the last 4 years.1) buying at a discount is MY preferred way to reduce risk.

However, as you mentioned, the lender is referring to Fannie Mae guidelines that say PMI can't be removed until after a two-year seasoning period, even if the renovations themselves have lowered the LTV.Fannie Mae's Policy on PMI Removal: Generally, Fannie Mae guidelines allow for PMI removal if the LTV drops to 80% or below and the homeowner requests it after the loan has seasoned (usually 2 years).

We're wondering about various what-if's though, such as what if the people tear up the place, what if we don't want to rent to someone in particular due to references or credit or pets, etc.