Since I am self-employed, I will likely be looking at hard money lenders (HMLs), non-QM lenders (bank statement loans, DSCR loans, and small, local, regional banks and credit unions.

We will see the STR become cyclical (much like anything) where those who can weather the storm will survive in good times and bad. 

This is for a new construction SFR (expected completion - Sep 2024) which will be used as Investment Property.That's the rate they quoted (7.5% with 2.25 potins ) as of  today with 25% down , with 800 Credit score, Zero Debt. 

Two points, my credit score is high, I have assets and liquidity, so qualifying for lending should not be an issue.Appreciate any input. 

I took a major L this year by getting into a bad STR arbitrage deal from Aug-Sept.

This is not to say an experienced sponsor has bad deals, they will, but an investor typically will not only get 100% wiped out but if the company also took bonus depreciation the LP's will also have to pay that money back to the IRS, so its a double whammy (not an accountant but one may be able to chime in more on this).If you are a LP and invested in a syndication that has bridge debt, I strongly recommend you watch it very closely.

I wouldn't paint it unless it's so bad it would fail inspection.

I had one bad instance early on, but AirBnB paid me out on it, but have been clear in my messaging...have ring cameras at all entrances (and make sure this is clear in the listing) and then let my guests enjoy themselves. 

Yeah you are totally right.. a bad installer can cause many problems.

If it is bad enough that can suppress rental rates but a family looking for $2000/month rental is not going to consider $3000/month units.