In mid-August, we unfortunately had a fire in the attic of the rental home.

I would agree that the interest rate will like be Low to mid 5 if it is non owner occupied. 

Does anyone have a recommended investor friendly credit union or bank in mid Michigan?

I do not know anything about the east coast or the mid west.

I'm still new to REI and I understand how BRRRR works but it seems like it only works out in low to mid cost of living areas.

Then mid-transaction they realize it is a mistake and come to you with these questions. 

I’ve always had in my mind that I would get into real estate, especially since I’m still young (mid 20s), I love real estate, and because I have a great deal of financial knowledge (but no real capital..haha).

For mid to low range renters, keep it clean, neutral, and inexpensive.

Unfortunately, the best dog is a well-trained one with a responsible pet owner, which will be very difficult to insure now that you've okay'd them getting one mid-lease. 

(ask your insurance company what kind of additional coverage you'd need for these mid-term stays)If it looks like there's a nice bit of cash flow in there and you want to move forward, get a couple of licensed contractors to go through both the properties and give you quotes on a rehab.