I've included an example below to help illustrate this.So different lenders have different rates (which do vary even for DSCR loans) but these are factors they all consider.See example below:DSCR < 1Principal + Interest = $1,700Taxes = $350, Insurance = $100, Association Dues = $50Total PITIA = $2200Rent = $2000DSCR = Rent/PITIA = 2000/2200 = 0.91Since the DSCR is 0.91, we know the expenses are greater than the income of the property.DSCR >1Principal + Interest = $1,500Taxes = $250, Insurance = $100, Association Dues = $25Total PITIA = $1875 Rent = $2300DSCR = Rent/PITIA = 2300/1875 = 1.23DSCR lenders generally let you vest either individually or as an LLC.

They will correct for sewer fees because those are set Jan-Mar, but water usage is what it is.

Its a strategy that barely even worked few years ago but currently airbnb rents are DOWN across the board and LTR rents are UP, the trend changed last year due to so much airbnb supply it dropped the rates and airbnb also got stricter with cancellation fees as well as giving guest refunds more often. 

Is it normal to pay down or fee before getting the $$?

Why not take your wholesale fee and then use that to partner with someone you do know well. 

Does that mean net cash in your pocket after interest, taxes, principal, insurance, repairs, maintenance, credit card fees, etc.?

That's why I work with a fee only advisor. 

In my county you can search online for records and pay a small fee to download the documents.

If I could chime in to help in the search:be sure to find an accountant who is willing to grow with you, and is not too high priced fee-wise.

As well as I charged no fee's I only get paid if we have a profit..