I appreciate the encouragement and information provided. 

I’m encouraging her to look at properties but not make any offers until May to see if she can get in at a lower price.

Second, while it may not do you any good for this round, I highly encourage you to capture a video walkthrough of the space when empty so you have something to show tenants for your next vacancy.

I appreciate the encouragement!

It's wonderful to see a community member encourage people new to REI with constructive feedback!

I have cancelled all STR's for April.I'm not trying to encourage anyone traveling around spreading the virus just to make a buck.I don't live hand to mouth so I can weather the storm.I have heard some arbitrage people have been walking away from their leases due to no income.

Why are individuals being given relief funds and being encouraged to not pay rent by eviction moratoriums?

I don't think ESAs have the same protections under ADA or Fair Housing laws....but I encourage you to check.Now, let's say the answer is yes the State, County or City does prevent you from taking a "pet deposit," there is nothing that prevents you from requiring a higher security deposit....unless of course there is...LOL. 

If $300k is truly your max, I would highly encourage you consider duplexes as they often do fall under that $300k range that still need a bit of work and and improve the value over time through forced appreciation.

Because its a hud home, the Seller which is the government is not only looking for owner occupants using conventional or FHA rehab loans, they ENCOURAGE it!!!