Eric the current insert is in very good condition, so i am not replacing/touching it. even if i put a few small tiles on the vertical strip, the water will still pop them out over time. i need a solution to keep the water from rolling out of the tub.

Sure, with enough research and patience a borrower might find a high LTV lender, however these lenders are neither reliable, consistent nor around when the cycles change. 

Where do you plan to get reliable cap rate comps from? 

It's because out-of-state and out-of-country investors have been snookered by local fast-money deals with no reliable exit.

I'm finally looking at my first distressed seller deal. The #s look pretty good "except", the pool has popped out of the ground.What to do with the pool and how much?

Best of luck in working through some options, plenty of tool and advice on this site when you narrow down your possible solutions!

But in the spirit of good minds debating and coming up with solutions to issues, I have a couple of cross angles here. 

I understand the upside to choosing the better solution based on interest rates.

My plan is to stay under $350000, but would feel more comfortable around $200000.I do not want and do not have time to hassle with with renters, so would like to have it in areas where renters are more reliable.

Not a lot of decent solutions, currently working on one myself.