Usually, this is where there are issues which tends to happen after transporting the home to the end location. 

Like a coffee gift card, snack basket, etc.

I would pay off everything else first; credit cards, car loan, personal loan, college loans. 

If you operate an STR, gross income is your total rent paid by your guests, before any subtractions.To figure out your taxes, you take this gross income and subtract from it all allowable business expenses: marketing, education, technology, licenses and fees (including Airbnb and credit card fees), office expenses, business driving and so on.

Plus 90% of repairs can be put on a credit card.  

Post cards are not necessarily cheap.

Will they find the property send you a contact and then a thank you card or will they provide resources for tenant improvements, get tenants, stabilize the units, plan for the exit etc...

There are a lot of assets in Columbus that are basically turn key properties, and even if you have some minor renovations (5k-10K)I would recommend trying to go after an interest-free credit card AFTER you are approved and close for your loan.

We make money from value add features and services: credit card fees (ACH is 100% free), credit reporting for tenants, insurance policies (both renter’s insurance and landlord), our lease creation and e-sign feature.

Play the 'friend in common' card if possible.Regarding seller financing, I don't see this being a viable option since they are in default on their current loan.If funding could be an issue for you, take a step back and work on that first.