The biggest reward of owning and managing vacation rentals is much greater than financial; the friendships I have made with people around the country are priceless.  

Over the years, I've done less and less of my own work for many reasons, but mostly because it's not the highest and best use of my time.

:)Hey Lane, my advice would be if your town doesn't offer any networking or events, I would encourage you to take matters into your own hands!

My family and I have owned a 2-family home since 2016 where we've always rented the 2nd unit.

Certain organizations such as the AICPA and the State board that issues the CPA license mention what a CPA can / can't do to retain his / her license.Providing a comfort letter is an 'attest service'.Furthermore, CPA firms are encouraged to have insurance, which may mention that the firm can not provide comfort letters.What the mortgage company is looking to do is potentially have another person to go after if the mortgage goes south.It is not worth it to a CPA to get a few hundred dollars but potentially get a lot more in risk exposure.

We all need friends with a lot of stoke in our investing journey and Mark is that type of person you need in your life!

I own a victorian house that was fully gut renovated/modernized 18 years ago.

I personally think you can, and if the former owner redeems, they get cutover timber land.

My personal suggestion - given what I know of your finances would not be to try and do a BRRRR - especially if you have never done one.  

Personally I would hustle and save money.