Now you can flex your muscles at your hubby and I bet your tenant is a bit embarrassed.  

Again, my post is for discussion purposes only - I figured providing a real life example of how the new construction model can work, but also the risk associated with it at this time, might help some OOS make whatever choice is best for them.

You got two choices one is to start lending or the other one is to pay a monthly/yearly fees to get educated about real estate for your first year or two.

Hi Pretty,There is absolutely no way to know ahead of time if you will recover the cost 100% or even 1%.The choice might come down to how much you and your wife want to have this very desirable bathroom vs the one that is in there now.Getting your money back on it in a new-ish suburban home is just unknown upfront--I'd say this purchase is more of "Personal Desire" purchase than a hard nosed business purchase.Although it could turn out at sales time to being some added sale price...

I think your best bet is motion sensitive cameras and lights - and if you have a house across the street put them there too so you can get two angles. 

There is good and bad with every situation, dealer's choice though.

Current rates are in the 4's on a 30 year fixed, so not heinous and since you don't qualify for conventional financing, this is your next best bet. 

Best bet might be regional banks.

Full appraisals post pandemic are few weeks out so desk appraisals are your best bet right now.

Your best bet is to find one agent who is a good fit for you, and work with that person exclusively.