Cabins in the Smokies typically don't have a garage, but your point is well taken with this much space.  

The other option, however, is that I can live more or less for free for the rest of the year between a few family members and friends and save that bit of extra cash towards the purchase.The extra cash could either help me jump on a deal sooner or it could be a buffer/money for potential renovation when I move in.

You have more financing options if owner occupied and your risk is mitigated because you are living there.

Hi All,I am looking to buy a retail commercial property and looking for options for loan.

Typically we get paid our assignment at closing and the earnest money put down by the buyer is held by the title company in case a seller backs out. 

Hi Riyanka.While I reserve my top shelf contractor info for my clients, I'm happy to provide 3 hard money options. 1 warning- it's normal for most hard money lenders to quote a higher LTV upfront and then drop it, later, increasing your required cash in the 11th hour- so I recommend you pursue 2 at the same time.Ken Ketter, at the bottom, is the most LTV-stable hard money lender I've worked with in several years, but typically their loan money is dispersed/out- you may get lucky and they may have funds available.https://capitalfund1.com/https://www.hardmoneylendersarizona.com/Ken Ketter 928.853.5339If I can help with consulting in other ways, just holler. 

My policy is based on the goal of collecting enough to cover a typical amount of pet damage over a 1 year lease.

Assuming my alternative options would be: - Refinancing with here on the loan?

Bringing in a partner with the funds needed or portfolio loan, talk to more banks it sounds like would be the best option. 

Both are attainable options in the Poconos.