I'll definitely check out the book you recommended and bias towards action!

What I am seeing around with occupancy is two facets, the legal IRS/fannie mae/freddie mac rules and also the intent.

However, it is crucial to consult with a tax professional or legal advisor to ensure that you are following all laws and regulations regarding depreciation and ownership transfers.

I’m definitely interested in a meet-up or mastermind. 

I'm having trouble finding a definitive answer on this.

Basically I'm trying to use my 127,000 in my self directed to purchase this STR, and trying to find the best and cheapest way to come up with the rest that is legal.  

Who cares what they think of your situation regardless of if its positive or negative (and it most definitely is a positive).

If anything, the real "trick" is providing a service to someone at no-cost, then having to pay the repair bill when the infrastructure for that free service breaks or when performing regular maintenance (pumpouts).Family size is definitely a consideration.When was a tenant, I cant recall anything being provided for free.  

Definitely get with their broker and if you don't get satisfaction there, contact the state regulation authority for real estate licensing to file a complaint.

Investing in a 16-unit apartment building is definitely a big step up from owning a two-unit duplex.