3) How flexible is the contractor about meeting at the property for their inspection to generate a bid? 

If a cash out refinance, many lenders will allow the cash out to satisfy the reserves requirement.DSCR lenders generally let you vest either individually or as an LLC.

IMO, the best strategy for that type of individual is to purchase residential property in an area they are or can become familiar with; in an area where the neighborhood is “on the rise”, typically where demand exceeds supply and people are spending $$$ on fixing up properties.  

I was interested in something like owning a rental property as a way to generate some additional income. 

More likely, he is hoping to use the extra time to collect more rents and thus more fees to generate the funds to pay his owner clients:(

After reading so many intros of young, single, eager individuals, I'm hoping I'm not too late to the game! 

A vacation rental could generate higher returns but requires more active management.

If it were, it would be priced to only generate a 5-6% overall returns.  

Additionally, Airbnb income during this period could generate steady cash flow, though market conditions and regulatory risks should be considered.

I individually priced all my materials and got several estimates from contractors.