For instance, Berea is a charming college town, but the combination of local taxes and less favorable price-to-rent ratios makes it less appealing for investment compared to other areas in the state.Agree here! 

I've worked with tenants in a similar fashion and ended up feeling ok about it but it was short term, over the course of a few months and they paid me something the entire time. 

The numbers may not be that favorable in LA for this, I don't have enough information. 

These properties can provide cash flow and diversification while qualifying for favorable residential loans.

I'm never in favor of government over stepping, but I can also see how desperate individuals can be taken advantage of during this tragedy. 

Some local lenders familiar with Gainesville’s market (from what I’ve read in Bloomberg) like SunState Federal Credit Union and Ameris Bank have been mentioned favorably latley and might be a bit more flexible if they understand the repositioning story behind your property.

This allows entry without a key, and allows me to change the lock as needed if I don't want someone in there.As an agent, I provide contacts to my clients who will do these things, and occasionally I will do favors for past clients who need someone to open the door or quickly supervise an appointment; of course not all agents will do this or for free.  

Each potential buyer has come to their own conclusion that it would be too much hassle and risk to manage in this fashion vs a traditional rental even though the average cap rate in our area has been half that at best.

More cash and more favorable LTV%.  

With your brother’s $50K equity already in the property, this should make the loan-to-value ratio favorable for refinancing.HELOC monthly payment on $68K: ~$300 (depends on your rate and term).Lease payment from brother: $800/month.Future mortgage (refinance $68K over 30 years at 6%): ~$400/month