Proper asset location is a non-trivial consideration! 

Can I use the tenant's security deposit to clean up/restore the yard?

If its from the PM, 10-15% typically but very location dependent too.

CT is where I am located and for this state it's 5% EMD and the rest no sooner than 21 days but no later than 30 (that timeframe is when the closing process with the seller/borrower will take place)...But since my state has a judicial foreclosure process and every step must be court-approved I just wasn't sure if I have to put down 5% EMD before it gets approved or after(I want to note that the clock for the 21 to 30-day timeframe to close doesn't start until the court approves the sale) 

Where is your STR located?

Actually, BOTH scenarios push this into commercial:https://guide.freddiemac.com/app/guide/section/5601.2See:(a) Ineligible property typesMortgages secured by the following property types are not eligible for purchase by Freddie Mac:A 2- or 3-unit property with an ADU that does not comply with zoning and land use requirements (illegal zoning)A 1-, 2- or 3-unit property with two or more ADUsA 4-unit property with an ADU

Sellers want to be on the MLS that covers the area where their home is located, so they can offer a commission to LOCAL buyer agents.2.

The listing and the photos looks great and you are posting on all the top sites.I would recommend reevaluating the price to see if a price adjustment will drive traffic as well as consider posting to a site like Facebook Marketplace.I know that our market in San Diego is different than where you are located, but we are seeing it takes approximately 23 days for a property to be leased. 

Being able to enter all expenses, mortgage, mortgage interest, sewage, water, security , gas/electricity , cost segregation study to depreciate it  over 5,7,15 years as opposed to the 27.5 years. 

I use apartments.com as a tenant portal and to manage secure ACH transfers for rent payments.