They want you to have skin in the game.

Then you might get a little less based off the concept that the investment is less risky when this person puts 'skin in the game'.  

most private lenders would go to about 75% of the purchase price the other option is to see if you can find a seller willing to hold a note for a portion of the last 25% (maybe 10 to 15%) and you can come up with the difference but most lenders want you to have some skin in the game as well 

At least as an owner with skin in the game, there is motivation to vet short term rentals guest, limit the number of occupants per unit/bedroom, keep the property in good condition with maintenance after every turn, etc. 

It seems like such a big, glowing opportunity for improvement, but it would also be a lot for a newbie such as myself to take on.

That being said, having "skin in the game" would give you the best change to receiving non-traditional financing for your investment property.  

That will keep some skin in the game in case they bail on you.Maybe do month-to-month with your next tenant to give you flexibility on when you want to move. 

I'd loose the cash flow, but I'd have a huge chunk to go after a multifamily and have skin in the game for raising additional capital.  

The previous guy may have had glowing reports, and guess what?

Potential $1000Tenants pay Gas/Electric/Water/SewerExpenses:  $2824 (we use the BP calculator so this includes everything)Potential Cash flow ~ $950 including our rent for the hack and the office conversion.We have no skin in the game.