@Cynthia Lee you should confirm this with an experienced landlord-tenant attorney!

My plan is to build a trustworthy network on the ground, but looking for referrals from experienced investors. 

It’s a lot to keep track of, especially when researching multiple markets.Would greatly appreciate any advice/insights from experienced investors who've navigated these challenges :- How do you approach understanding and evaluating short-term rental regulations when considering a new market?

They partnered with an experienced realtor who handled most of the contractor coordination while they focused on financing and design decisions..

In this situation we have a former-tenant  hyper sensitive to return of full security deposit (when unit wasn’t returned in good condition) and we are  experiencing a few unique damages.

Network with experienced investors, choose a real estate strategy, research markets with job and population growth, learn financing options, familiarize yourself with property management, develop a long-term plan, and leverage your stock experience to evaluate markets and trends.Good luck!

You likely will max out before 10 though as the average person with average income will have difficulty qualifying after a few loans because of things like the DTI (debt to income ratios).

If you have zero experience in construction, pay an experienced handyman a few hundred to make a quick assessment.

On the other hand if they are a sponsor that is experienced in stopping a skin in the game, that's a huge red flag for me.c) how open to scrutiny are they?

The unfortunate side effect of moratoriums like this and the court rules, is that many residents think they do not have to pay rent and are choosing not to whether experiencing a COVID hardship or not.