Yes, as an investor, you can request an extension with HUD, though approval isn’t guaranteed.

I haven’t found any types of jobs or maintenance that the property manager approved that seemed relevant but will keep looking. 

@Timothy Blackman- thanks  ...get some referrals for lenders from friends / co workers ...contact them all on the same day with the same criteria and ask them any questions you have and  ask for some scenarios ...compare the  feedback and service they provide ...pick one lender to get pre approved with ,,once you have a property - contact all lenders again for pricing options for the actual loan you will need ...hopefully the lender you chose for pre approval will be competitive in their pricing ..good luck

The more you show on your paystubs, the more lenders will approve you to borrow and the faster your savings will grow.  

Some surrounding suburbs still allow it, but the only way to have a new STR approved in Waco city limits is if it's in multifamily or commercial zoning.

We have in our management agreement what amount of work we're authorized to have done without an approval from an owner (ours is $350)  If you don't have that, I would request that. 

One reason could be that not all appraisers consider basement space to be "general living area" (GLA), regardless of the building codes.To overcome this barrier, you can:Provide Documentation: Present the city’s approval for the egress window and any other relevant permits or certificates that show the space was done according to code.

Even though interest rates and terms won't be as desirable as conventional, you'll have an easier time getting pre-approved.

@Davin Manfredi first, regardless of what you do make sure you ask how they are going to run a vent and let them know you have to approve of the work that's going to be done and do quality control afterward.

Lenders might require approval for property transfers.2.