If you have at least $2,000 to spend or once you scale to that point you could run ads to get your seller leads to come to you and usually these people are just scrolling and your ad pops up that you're looking to "pay cash for homes." 

Basically, flip partnerships suck unless you spend a long time being clear about the roles and payouts, etc.

Additionally, do you all generally use a smaller income criteria if the rent is inclusive of utilities? 

Overall, you're spending $25k in extra costs and a monthly pmt that's $500 higher to keep $50k in your bank account. 

Additional Info —Key Details:Location: Outside Santa Fe, NMProperty Size: 20 acres (valued at $80,000)Project: Two new STR unitsExisting Experience: Family has two fully-occupied LTRs nearby, generating $2,000/monthConstruction Approach: Self-contracted with licensed trades for electrical/plumbingCost Assumption: $80,000 per unit, plus ~20% for inflation (based on 5–8-year-old build costs)Financing: Using land equity as down payment on construction loan (expecting closing costs to be major expense)Request: Looking for feedback, potential pitfalls, and general guidance

I know you mentioned doing STR, but then you need to spend another $10k+ to get it furnished.

To the nuts and bolt question of what defines occupancy, it is the place you reside and spend the majority of your time/nights.

We will have lots of renovations and additions to do over the years, so I'm worried that it will be hard to save up for more rental properties.Any suggestions?

I wouldn't spend one minute worrying about that violence. 

Many insurance companies do not allow adding a landlord as additional insured.