Maybe they don't and just rely on appreciation.

I'd hate the idea of buying and hoping for immediate equity, and relying on an expensive remodel to get to positive cash flow.

Assuming a fence, hedge row or other indication on the ground marks the property line or relying on the seller's, real estate agent's or neighbor's opinion or belief is, increases the possibility of a property line dispute dramatically.

Don't rely upon Zillow screening.

I lived near the area years ago and visited last in 2020 so I definitely didn't want to rely on my outdated memories if the opportunity knocked to purchase an STR in Arroyo Grande.  

The crux of paying cash for investment property and getting it all back quickly after rehab relies on factors that he explains so easily.  

You'd need to double-check it before relying on this preliminary opinion.)

New to commercial lending and looking to rely on the expertise of this subreddit.I will be calling loan officers tomorrow for specific answers but I wanted to know what I should expect.

Both options of course also rely on you having enough funds without having to sell in order for you to purchase a home in your new city.

There are mortgages for investors that do not rely on your personal income to qualify.