This is what I recommend for you:1.

Going into the project I was ready to permit and want to do my best with the city and not get penalized but 3 licensed/bonded contractors have said they would not recommend permitting with such a small project.

I would not recommend doing major renos when you are a brand new investor and are investing out of state. 

Any recommendations on who to use for a DSCR cash-out refi?

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..Wishing you the best!

I always like recommending David Greene's Pillars Of Wealth book as a great foundation for you to build your real estate portfolio on top of.

Highly recommend it.

This is what I recommend for you:1.

There are obviously no past records on Airbnb is when you buy them you just have to be a local agent and no the area so we couldn't go off of past to you 12s or previous numbers which is a challenge for most Airbnb is and why most people don't buy them if they don't have a history Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I first went to the wrong lender in the beginning and it caused a lot of stress Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?