My strategy is BRRRR with the initial purchase and rehab using private money, then pay then back with a cashout refi after 6 months, so maybe that is something you could look into.

Initially, I was hesitant to accept due to the cash flow that this property provided; however, a very tempting value-add RV park also popped up simultaneously with this off-market offer on the house.

Just a couple of initial thoughts I've been considering, but I was curious what others might be doing to further maximize their vacation rental in different, creative ways?

Initially our offer was lower than some of our competitors.

I did use the same lender which hired the same appraiser for my initial purchase so that could have been the issue. 

My role would be anything behind the scenes dealing with LLC paperwork, accounting, initial funding, etc (will not be involved with showings, or anything dealing with a listing or sellers or buyers)The friend with the license and owner will deal with all real estate requirements of the business. 

Initial down + closing --> $59K.

Initial down + closing --> $59K. 

Initially I wanted to rent it but decided to stay a little as the prices are pretty high.

You will only be able to refinance out 80% of the value and if your property value stays the same you won't have any equity to take out with only 3.5% down on the initial purchase.