Some of these other options you listed are decisions based on how you want to live and how you feel about having strangers in your primary house and aren't something we can tell you to do. 

Supply paint, pizza and beer and you should save about 4 grand but results may vary.Another option is just to paint the areas that look the worst and attempt to match existing paint colors--this is usually what I do if anything at all.

@Rebecca Schnur I think you're right to carefully consider your options with Stessa, especially given the importance of security in online financial transactions.

Aside from your typical duplex example, there are many creative ways to house-hack a deal, but you won't know until you start viewing properties.

I am not sure if this is the right place or not but I wanted some input into any obvious issues with my lease option offers to the tenant buyer that earns plenty of income but doesn't have the cash right now and wants to improve credit before purchasing but would like to lock in the price as our market is still struggling with inventory. 

You'll have the option to refinance later when rates decrease, if necessary.

Would you consider MTR and STR as back up options?

I would change my tone with the old contractor and notice him in writing he's not welcome back to the property and you are looking into option to hold him accountable.

I would recommend reaching out to a few to get a better handle of your options.

If I could find a multifamily to househack that may be a better option for 5%.