I brought up Irfan because he's doing a healthy business right now in Philly/Jersey, but wants to quadruple his business in short order. 

Do you pay hotel/lodging or any other short-term rental tax?

I would also like to flip a property or two in the short-term, perhaps with my good friend who I mentioned earlier.  

I'm an active duty US Navy Chief Petty Officer, brand-new BPer and real estate enthusiast, I got turned on to this whole game (and BiggerPockets) at the suggestion of a coworker shortly after I moved to Tampa back in July. 

All but one gave the buyer the right to inspect within a short period and back out if they were not satisfied with their findings. 

The short answer is, I have no idea how good they are. 

Short term (< 1 year) at above market interest (say ~10%+).

I don't recommend doing that, unless you want the same headaches dealing with short-term and extended stay guests as landlords have with tenants when it comes time to remove them from the property. 

So the loan would be a short term way to free up my equity.

Vernon/Skagit area.If you are interested in short term rentals & Vacation rentals @Eric Kouvolo would be another good local investor for you to meet with.