I realize that I will make mistakes and not everything I do will be the best choice.

Unlike a traditional bank loan, a hard money lender usually loans you money based on the quality of the deal, your experience, and not your credit score.Best of luck!

Most of the time they end up with an asset manager who then works with an REO agent to list the property on the market and sell it through traditional channels. 

You might have to reach out to a non-traditional lender for a portfolio product if you can't qualify.

Anyone heard of services like Choice Warranty that take care of any maintenance items for your houses like heating/plumbing/sewer/water issues/appliances, etc.?

Anyone heard of services like Choice Warranty that take care of any maintenance items for your houses like heating/plumbing/sewer/water issues/appliances, etc.?

The later choice takes times and rarely bears fruit in our experience. 

If the traditional STR markets aren't taking this (Foremost & Proper), I would suggest connecting with an independent agent and they can try the following,1)  Try and find a carrier who can pair the high risk property with your Home and Auto policy.   2)  Find a policy with a Lloyds of London type insurance carrier3)  State back insurance - Each state has a Property insurance fund as a resource if the public can not find coverage. 

It's easier to go the traditional vacant refinance route in my opinion.

I can buy the house traditionally if they have no way around their problem.