The property will be strictly for investment purposes, not a primary residence.I’ve been looking into two potential financing options:Hard Money Lenders (HML) – I’m drawn to this option for its speed in closing, but I know the rates can be higher.DSCR Loans – This seems like a great option for long-term rentals, but I’m unsure if it’s the right fit for my auction property since it might need some rehabbing.I’m also considering purchasing through a land trust or an LLC to add a layer of protection and privacy.So, my questions are:What’s the best way to approach financing for auction properties?

This protects against potential claims and liabilities specific to the rental.For tax purposes, maintain clear records of rental-related income and expenses, allowing deductions for insurance, utilities, maintenance, and depreciation proportionate to the rental unit.

@Al JeciusAre you in City of Flagstaff or Coconino County for zoning purposes?

A property qualifies as Homestead for this exemption if an eligible owner files a Principal Residence Exemption (PRE): https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/0,4676,7-238-43535_43539-210891--,00.html#:~:text=Section%20211.7cc%20and%20211.7,purposes%20up%20to%2018%20mills.Many investors have gotten an ugly surprise when they bought a property that was a primary residence of the seller for the last 20 years.

>>For purposes of taxes, consult with a CPA to confirm this would work for your situation, but you could have the LLC be treated as a "disregarded entity" and thus, even if you and your wife are members, any profits/losses would "disregard" the LLC and go directly on your personal returns. 

The first main purpose of real estate investing(or any other investing) should be the return you are getting.

I sense a bit of "purpose" that is driving you that you may not have thought of.

While you don't exactly validate his claim..sounds like for many it might be moving that way.Is there any city that could make it a competitive advantage? 

Those property use codes may come in handy for other purposes, such as when my municipality is aiming to ban STRs.  

Exactly Tom all of my sub to over the years have been deals were we got the assets for far below market did rehab and resold generally within 9 to 12 months we never bought them to keep as rentals.