You can talk with someone at the VA regarding this, but you will likely need to ask for a manager a few times to get the answer.I havent assumed any VA loans so thats bit outside my knowledge set, but they should be able to answer your question fully.Did the prior owner live there for at least 1 year?

There you will be asked your criteria and then after answering a few questions you will be matched with 3-5 agents or loan officers in your area.

We were unaware of the guest's involvement in any questionable activities at the time of the interview.

Sometimes, you need to remove the gas line and stove, but many towns are ok with owner-occupany in the boarder.Let me know if have you any questions and when you are looking, look for uneven layouts to cash flow more to start.

My first question is why can’t they qualify for a better loan now, such as DSCR or even a HELOC?

Quote from @Mubarak Basha:Software is a common question on BiggerPockets.

We have a whole group of people that do creative financing, STR, etc that would be great to answer these questions for you. 

I didnt see the builder part of the question the first time around.

If the answer to any or all of these questions is no, or you are unsure, then I would avoid the hassle (and future maintenance) of adding them.Another con to consider is added liability.

Question is if you are renovating now might be the best time to do it.