How would you screen high quality tenants based on what criterial; credit score?  

The thing is with Raleigh specifically, is that much of our inflation is a natural outcome of strong growth:- Many Fortune 100 companies and 500 are establishing headquarters here- A significant influx of people moving into the area.

We just chose decor that fit the idea of a nice lake house.Sometimes a place can just design itself based on location.

Adapt your approach based on the local conditions and keep refining your investment strategy as you gain experience.

This can be forced appreciation (adding a bathroom or bedroom), or it can be natural market appreciation if I think the asset will go up in value. 

Not only are you new to lending, but - even if it was a secured loan - I"m guessing based on the amount it'd be in second position.  

I am based in Minnesota and also have connections in Louisiana. 

Seller claims they never were served and Seller broker is not releasing based on Seller's word including saying they are seeking legal counsel (they have been seeking legal counsel since December). eXp MN state broker team has been unresponsive and very unhelpful throughout the process.

Although based on my research too, being a loan officer is very time consuming too.

However, for any SFR and duplex, a residential lender will value the property based off the sales comp approach, just an FYI!