This is double-effective, because it helps you build your network of lenders, handy people, contractors, title partners, private lenders, etc who...if the proper relationship can be developed will show you what the MLS can't.  

Desperately seeking out any tips, tricks, or solutions those more experienced than us in this would recommend to prep the floor for tile in the most cost effective way; keeping in mind the rest of the house is finished, so we are trying to minimize damage to cabinets/drywall etc.

Plan out your rehabs strategically and cost-effectively.

noticed only thing that Zillow does not have is Coordinating Repairs & Maintenance or add handyman details to the platform for effective communications between tenant and local handyman.

My insurance coverage is in effect, but there is a $2500 deductible. 

For reference, the numbers for this deal are as follows: Purchase: $100k (Purchasing with 15% down, loan balance $85k)Rehab: $10kARV: $135k (New loan balance assuming 85% LTV refinance $114,750)As the lender stated, I'd effectively have no skin in the game once the deed was done, or at most $5k due to an overage in rehab, closing costs or carrying costs. 

Given you had 250,000 liquid why wouldn’t one:1) Purchase a 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Condo2) Rent out two rooms for 900 monthly each 3) Take the third room “effectively removing your rent payment you will need anywhere”Result - 2700 x 12 = 32,400 minus 10,000 for HOA and Yearly Property taxes. 

It is non-corrosive to concrete and tends to be effective over a longer duration.

Will this effect my chances of getting an FHA loan as a first time home buyer?

Is there a rule of thumb in terms of reserves/savings you must hold before buying your next (beyond the down payment) - in effect planning for the worst.