Quote from @Don Miller: The following is not to express any level of happiness or unhappiness with the build:Received change orders totaling $14,970 for 18 additional loads of fill dirt over allotted amount in contract (fill dirt arrived in December 2022), 7 loads of septic sand over allotted amount, and rock excavation at the septic site.I deal with all of those issues on new builds.

When its included in a lease for real estate then the laws pertaining to residential rental security deposits in your state apply but when its separate you should have more leeway to get some additional deposit to protect you.

The time for a discount would be after it's been on the market a week or two (with no offers received) or better yet just before 30 days before a price reduction takes place. 

Both properties have a substantial amount of equity that’s essentially sitting idle.Would it be a good idea to tap into this equity (through a HELOC, cash-out refinance, etc.) to fund future fix-and-flip projects or purchase additional rental properties?

In addition to that, platforms like HomeAdvisor or Angi are great for finding vetted professionals, and local builders associations or the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce may have directories or recommendations. 

Additionally, the price point is still cheap enough to find the 1% rule and positive cash flow and it's super landlord friendly (so you will never have to go through a 12 month eviction or anything close to that!).

That's an ADDITIONAL capitol investment made. 

Additionally, the price point is still cheap enough to find the 1% rule and positive cash flow and there's amazing appreciation potential.

Great use of space and provides additional income to offset the monthly payment.Orlando, and many other cities, have a "missing middle" problem in regards to housing. 

Additionally, ensure that all necessary notices for filing an eviction have been posted and properly documented in your records.