However, I feel like there's a lot of potential to run into a lot of walls/pitfalls that can cost a ton of time/money if I do this route.At the end of the day, I want to put a lot of emphasis on using the newest technologies to streamline the business as much as possible. 

Nothing inherently wrong with either, but something to be clear on before investing money, since the controllable successes or failures of a property are going to come down to who is actually putting the deal together and who is running it.I would also be certain how the capital is flowing from deal, through primary sponsor, and down to you, the Spark Rental investor.  

- Should I do a partial remodel, replace the vanity, toilet, floor, and put a tub cover?

If it breaks I certainly will, but it's still working just fine and I would rather put off what will be a couple hundred dollars repair until it's really necessary.  

Since you have a primary residence in the area, you’re probably already aware of this, but it’ll be tough to find a property in Huntsville proper within your $165,000 to $175,000 budget.Luckily, your 100-mile radius puts a handful of nearby (and more affordable!)

I have no interest in owning a property in a neighborhood where I (or anyone) would be harassed and threatened...and sorry, but taking other peoples' word for it just isn't good enough for me when I'm putting hundreds of thousands (or millions) on the line. 

The daughter was put on a beneficiary deed in 2017, but I've talked to her and she says she wants nothing to do with the property. 

Anyway putting together a list of damage to file a claim if you have any advice please let me know. 

As mentioned, a lender is not going to put money in an account.

Look into different asset classes and see which fits your risk level and goals.