@Caleb Heimsoth and @Michael Guzik if an LLC isn't created from the start then won't it be a extra time & money converting the owner on the pre-LLC properties title & docs? 

That is about the only other option if a barn door wont work...not recommending it but there are some very pretty curtains and if you mount the hardware extra wide inside the room the tenants can leave it fully open except when company comes.

If I fund the reno (during my lease period) and I don't end up purchasing the property, I will be out a great deal of money without receiving the reward of my extra investment.

I was billed for the work done and an additional $450 for pulling the permit.

I was thinking to to the stairs myself to save some extra money.

Or are the advantages offered by the 203K mortgage worth the extra work? 

I am strategizing for my first move into RE investments, and feel the BRRRR strategy will work best for me - starting with purchasing my first primary home and rent out an extra room until I am ready to rent out the entire house.

It could get you in the game now vs not entering or waiting and it costing you extra.

I would pursue as two separate financed deals negotiated in the same purchase agreement (assuming state law permits this).

My comfort level of accuracy and backup is worth the extra costs.