We are hoping to close in the next two weeks on a property that we know will *maybe* break even and more likely lose about $2K in the first year, but we're okay with that because we're getting something that we absolutely love and hope to enjoy for years to come.

Would you rather set it and forget it and not need to refi again or rather take advantage of low/no closing costs on this loan and plan to be more aggressive on your rate at the time of your refi?

.$8,000 would likely go away in closing costs.

When we found this deal the community had around 45 homes in it, now we are close to 60 total homes and looking to bring that number up to around 80.

I'd recommend starting with the lower hanging fruit than a large basement reno - if your comps are close but don't quite get you to your number.Finishing the basement (with proper egress) could push you over the top, but confirm with an appraiser first to ensure it counts.

Came close on two Mexican restaurants but they fell through for one reason or another.

I just bought my first STR and hopefully closing in February.

Some have closed deals, others have deals under contract, and any progress (big or small) is celebrated.    

Add $500k, capitalized improvements made over your 10 years of ownership and closing costs.3.

not an expert at this.. but the few times i have rented STR I don't even look at reviewsI rent by price.. as its usually for a fishing trip and I just want a bed bathroom and close to the lake or river LOl could care less about a review.