I’m also open to exploring short-term rentals, private lending, or passive investing in funds—anything that maximizes returns while keeping risk and time commitments manageable.For context, I’d consider leaving my job if this could become a full-time venture that surpasses my current compensation (low-mid six figures).

That is tight leverage for an investment 2nd position loan.A private investor might be willing to do it, it's not going to be cheap at all & will be short-term money & will not be a line of credit to take out at your liking.What is your rate on the 1st?

Rates:$2,000 Daily$10,000 Weekly$30,000 Monthly$25,000 Long Term Monthly$3,000 Holiday Daily$15,000 Holiday WeeklyI am looking for insight for anyone who has experience in this market to see how realistic that is... 

I first like to short list based on numbers and then deep dive.

I like this idea because it reduces the potential vacancy I could have by doing a short 3- to 4-month lease that ends in April or May, then starting over with a year lease.

Once I've completed these initial projects and built up some capital, my long-term goal is to transition into buy-and-hold investments in potentially more affordable markets to maximize cash flow and scale up.Right now, I'm particularly interested in investing locally here in the Seattle metro area.

The reason I recommend this is because as a short-term solution incase you cannot go full DSCR right out of the gate.

Quote from @Jason Malabute: Since the rental contract didn’t begin until January 1, 2025, the IRS would generally consider the property a rental property starting in 2025, not 2024.

Most likely one of two issues. (1) You don't have an investment grade deal; or (2) you don't have the relationships yet to assign a contract. 

In my opinion, the national debt is a medium-term problem.