So that begs the question: why would we choose to put money into a place that will be taxed later at an unknown rate (401k)? 

The program also comes with tax incentives as well when it comes to tax reporting time, would you not choose to use that incentive as well?

@Tung PhamI would choose option #2.

What factors should be considered when deciding whether to use a rent-by-room strategy for an SFR or just renting the whole property out to a single tenant/family? Also, how does the location of the property play into...

@Anthony Thomas Hager There are properties under 150k in my area but they aren't many to choose from.

Must make 3x the rent in either gross income or net income whichever you choose.

Balance the interior/exterior light so viewers can see the inside.

If they do not like the stay at home order and choose not to follow it you will not hold them accountable for using the amenities.

Now that doesnt mean you get to choose to work with anyone you want at a set price, but there are agents out there at every price point. 

I would not choose to use this contractor again as he has started every project late (he did smoke remediation under a different contract) and is not that great about answering questions.