This is my first house hack and never dealt with this situation, and don't want to incur with any other expense from beginning when I could be using this money towards improving the rental unit.

Probably improving, but some tough areas not far away.

You'll need to find good housekeeping,  maintenence staff, etc... 

@Seth Rouch  If they're looking to improve their score / build credit, two secured credit cards that report to all three bureaus would probably help the most. 

just letting you know that usually a percentage of tips per day is shared with the entire staff. so per hour wage is actually greater. 

If you want to use delayed financing without 6 months of seasoning, you can sometimes present receipts and payments to contractors to show the improved value of the property above purchase price if you want to cash out refi at 75 LTV before 6 months of seasoning.

In the meantime, I will be working on making improvements for the home.

Discomfort that improves the living condition and property (repairs/maintenance) is different from discomfort that interferes with the peaceful enjoyment of one's living environment (constantly barking dogs).

Similar size, occupancy, amenities, and class/location.Beyond that, having systems and back up staff who can both scale with me and provide coverage if one person gets hit by a truck. 

As well, we utilize the repairs and capitol improvement for write-offs.