If it’s possible to get enough of the renovation done quickly then I’d move in some tenants even at a discount to provide protection from the squatter.

Start small and scale up gradually as you gain experience and capital.Don't discount tax savings from rental while building your portfolio.

And some of the biggest repairs not for some time (roof 20, hvac 10, etc) .To me, building a new sfh should allow you to get a bigger discount than what is typically available these days unless you're really getting lucky. 

Many states have laws against this, but stop saying you are "helping them out", you are not, you are trying to take advantage of them to sell their home at a discount. 13.

Point is, yes, this strategy works and MY place works well for business travelers (individuals) and the occasional medical professional (who--no offense--ALWAYS asks for a discount :).

Why pay the remaining amount, when you just got yourself a 50% discount, right?   

I have the worst account rep that actually tells me to do things that are already there (like you should add a 10% or more discount for weekly rentals...um, did you even look at my listings first?).  

If this is the case, and you are still trying to cut her out, then it's evident that you're trying to get a discounted deal. 

I do give discounts on the listing side to repeat clients.

Go for a local manager, not an online, discount company like Evolve or Vacasa.Try to interview several managers.