As for contractors, it would be ideal to physically see previous completed work and current projects.

Am I required to issue a 1099 to my friend for his labor?

Our lender required the same thing as what you are saying so what we had to do was have my business partner sign a lease for us that stated when he would move in and how much he would pay in rent.

Most lenders will require 3-6 months title seasoning on a cash out refi with a DSCR loan.

(Yes plenty of my acquisitions are "wrecks" as you call it, and require significant expense to be made great...). 

They have higher rates and typically have prepayment penalties, however they require much less documentation. 

In this instance, just go address it And in the future, don't let this happen.For your vacation rentals, make sure there's a system in place where when any service is done there's photo proof, a timestamp, property manager digitally acknowledges, and a physical receipt there.

@Michael Plaks:For the number of times you've had to post this, it should be required reading before being awarded a Bigger Pockets account. ;-)  Sorry to for my ignorance Ken

The worst scenario is if the seller or escrow really requires me to use my own cash, I will use my HELOC and cash to buy it.

Hold it for forever, refinance as required to tap into equity and continue to grow our little portfolio.