The fact that they didn’t miraculously approve you instantly and want the cash at that exact moment lowers the chances that it is a scam IMO. 

I'm committed to speaking to them instantly but graciously when a potential or real problem arises.  

Once I get capital flowing, my mindset may change as I see it as a great way to get larger paydays, and I know how to do a lot of work myself, and even if finance/insurance structure doesn't allow that, I know enough to not get soaked by contractors.

I did reach out to Mesa, AZ code enforcement and the person that answered the call was quick to say "we dont enforce that" and was ready to hop off the call that instant.

Don't get me wrong, I long for those high instant returns but it kind of makes me tired thinking about earning them.

Just off the top of my head:- One sided reviews wherein the fairness or accuracy of the review is unmonitored; - Hefty skimming fees charged by the middle man;- Penalties to the host for denying scam stays or individuals attempting to break house rules (parties, animals, etc);- Search and listing penalties for enacting policies designed to protect/provide more security for your property (non-instant bookings, higher minimum stays, etc);- No vetting whatsoever of people who sign up to use the service, leaving the host to sort out the bums from the honest people (and take the penalty for tossing the bums aside).In my opinion AirBnb & VRBO (and Booking, to a lesser extent) have been vehicles for an arms race to the bottom.

Congrats on focusing in on Knoxville, it's a good location and still has some instant cash flow, as crazy as that sounds in this market. 

Be sure to include the correct property information in your video tour description so that prospective renters will find it in their search.Answer your phone every time it ringsTenants today are accustomed to instant gratification and a competitive rental market.

.- Once I live there for 2 years, I get the Sec 121 exception, meaning that instant equity from the discounted price will effectively be tax free income for up to $250k single / $500k married, when/if I go to sell.Questions...I've heard folks say that if you re-deposit it within 60 days (and have a tax professional do the relevant paperwork), there are no tax consequences.

I don't know if this is frugal or practical, but I use the small cardboard boxes with my packets of instant oatmeal as trash receptacles and plastic cereal bags as their liners.