I would get estimates from both lenders and brokers to see what loan products meet you needs.

FYI, the short term rentals will be underwritten as if they have a market rent lease on them, even though they ought to produce more. 

They tend to be able to offer "portfolio" products where they actually service the loan themselves, and they can usually be more creative if need be.   

I have also looked into borrowing for a down payment whether its from a personal loan, hard money lender, family, credit card cash advances, etc.Are there any recommended tips, products, BP webinars/podcasts that address this kind of situation?

Did not do the program as I'm not an agent but I can vouch for Jenifer's character and I know she stands behind her product!

For example, if you have a car loan that you’re only paying 2.9% on, why in the world would you pay that off if you can turn around and use that same cash as a down payment on an asset that’s going to produce a greater return than that?

David Greene covered the topic on one of the latest podcasts as well confirming that 6 months is a traditional answer for a lot of lenders, but isn't a hard and fast rule, therefore I need to continue to search.Your 75% comment is interesting because many of the HML websites I have been on are all marketing their products around a % of purchase price plus rehab, not starting at 75% of ARV which might (ideally will) cover the entire purchase price. 

Our employees love it because it allows them the freedom to take mental health days, personal development/fun days, and/or be present at important events in their kids/familys life.It's interesting to watch how much more productive people are when the constraints of M-F, 9-5, 50 weeks/yr are loosened up a bit. 

In my opinion (in the Chicagoland suburbs) any SFH below $250K is a very very hot product and this type of photography isn't necessary to bring buyers to your flip. 

That is the plan anyway but that is still at least 6 months before it will be ready for production.