Do you know that if you have active leaks, safety issues, etc. many lenders will not approve a loan? 

I understand we all love REI and BRRRR is super popular but if I were about to lose my career and concerned about my financial future, borrowing upwards of a million dollars in debt with absolutely no safety blanket would be the last thing on my mind.

Use neighborhood scout to determine crime / safety.

Might be a safety net there as well.I flipped a house in 2015 that had a sill rotted so bad it slid off the block foundation. 

He also mentioned the volatility aspect (march 2020) which if you are able to take advantage of, give the REIT another shot in the arm and margin of safety.

In summary, it is easy to find tenants, but the safety restrictions associated with Covid result in it taking much more time that our pre-Covid open house method. 

Simply call the city (google : building and safety: even if you don't know what dept. to start with ... they will guide you to the 'next dept. that can answer some questions: then ask that dept.

Be patient.

The main thing I thought of when reading your post is "be patient".

I'm also very aware of how difficult it could be to find a tenant with active construction on the property and she may be a good fit (for now.)Pros:She is well aware of the construction and will (hopefully) be patient with the construction crew.