Thank you Nick - unfortunately it is the name of the game in this space that there will be people with bad experiences, typically when the appraised value doesn't come in as what they expect and they lash out at the lender accordingly (anyone in this space obviously understands this occurrence). 

I have more than 20k to play with, just looking for ideas for best use. 

You want to play the charitable hero.

Figuring out the best areas to invest can be a game-changer.

Down payment amount varies and more you put down the highre you will be in the queue of applicants, also down payment varies per your credit...Dodd Frank IS in play!!

If your tenant has been playing these "schemes" then likely they've done this with the previous landlord and gotten away with it - so I hope you bought the property for a good price in order to account for this potential headache. 

You need to remember that, hopefully, this is a long-term play for you, so work with a trusted STR designer (I have great recommendations), and spend the money upfront so you can be the most successful in your area.

I’m pretty sure if your eyes go straight to an air vent, that is bad design 😂😂😂😂 I knew the game room needed a refresh but if that was the focal point I guess it was worse than I thought lol

I will not be surprised if a class action lawsuit gets filed again the building company and unfortunately Wagner because he is not playing the role that he should be playing.  

With a 3-5% down FHA loan, I snagged a cozy home in a hot spot, worked from home to play handyman, and created a hedge against the "what-ifs" of life.