I rented before I could even put on the market with one social media post.

Beyond that, you need to become an expert on labor and material rates in your area or get connected with someone else that is. 

I wish I had a more helpful answer.You could try your primary insurer and see if you can add a STR policy with it.

My buy box is a home 5 years or newer, A or B-rated schools in the 200K-400K range that will appreciate over time with someone paying down my debt.

Every way of valuing the property though is going to end up with similar numbers.

Budding new investor which is great since I'm also working for a real estate lender for both commercial & investor with construction services. 

I do know there is an added cost to ME but I'm ok with that. 

Recently, I was debating whether to lock in the mortgage rate for a single-family home we're purchasing in December, especially with rates spiking recently, or wait until after the next Fed meeting and election to be finalized.

Especially if you can find a four unit with a basement you can live in.

This is a great place to learn and to connect with people so take advantage of all the great resources.