I actually care a LOT about ensuring that I'm going about property acquisitions the right way and NOT bothering people / being as helpful to people as possible .... which is why I came to this thread.

I am definitely looking for a better deal.  4% why bother? 

Maybe this isn't the greatest use of money but it bothers me immensely how ****** the unfinished rear porch looks. 

In fact I don't know of any bank that would bother to track that information anyway

If they deem it unaffordable, they will try to negotiate it down and if you aren't satisfied then you can start the process over with another tenant. the 2k they are currently covered for rent can be an old number and one the past owner never bothered raising, but I would assume you would have to do your own application to be a landlord and I am sure the numbers used would be based on current FMR and the tenants current income level.. then again my knowledge is based on S8 St Petes Flordia, and you should call s8 housing authority to get clear and best answers

Unless you're going to enforce it being carried without cancellation/lapsing, don't bother.

I've never bothered with an LLC for residential rentals, especially if owned personally.   

If not do not even bother looking yet.

My understanding is, I was renting to a government entity, they are responsible for the damages to my home You know how Landlords react when a tenant is unaware of their lease terms because they didn't bother to read the lease they signed? 

If you are getting great rents as a long term, then I wouldn't bother with a STR or MTR at all.