However the property has a freeway behind it and hence no rear neighbors /more privacy.You’re going to see low or negative returns with minimum down payments in that area unless you’re going BIG as in much larger homes and much heftier budgets for design/amenities.There’s great cashflow on the Clearwater/Largo/Seminole/StPete side - you’re looking at 2 high cashflow buckets that I call Tier 1 and Tier 2. 

Mainly I’m trying to avoid “aged poorly design” glassblock walls, small bedrooms, older windows (wood/aluminum, single pane), aluminum patio covers, and to a lesser extent landscaping.

And that there have been plenty That have simply defaulted and imploded.On the other hand, ( at least so far) conservatively structured deals are doing what they were designed to do, which is to survive a downturn without having to do any of the above.

Designed for STR, reasonable, intuitive, great support.

Ooh, just met an operator there and they're doing really well. https://www.bearbranchcabins.com/Sounds like the A-Frame design is doing much better since that's a trending renter demand.

Summary: Portfolio product with 1% minimum down payment and no PMI requirement designed to benefit those heroes who serve and protect our communities.

It's not a scam per se, but it's unnecessary and is designed for people who don't have the financial discipline to apply their excess cashflow to debt paydown.

I also renovated houses and own an interior design and renovation business. 

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

Once you get through move in, the day to day management is pretty hands off and easy (famous last words, but so far, so good).Other than that, get a second opinion/eye from someone you trust - preferably a professional designer - on the furnishings and design.