I am convincing her that I am educating myself, I plan to have experienced people around me, and I let her know that all the pod casts, YouTube videos and books talk about the mistakes people have made and how to avoid them. 

Wichita cares about it's future and what it looks like and has a police dept that will get creative to solve problems such as the homeless and panhandlers -- Topeka/Shawnee county - not so much - they just care about the wealthy zip code and a several block radius around dt where the capital building is. 

There’s always a way to make something work if you’re willing to get creative.

Currently I am looking into getting a HELOC if I can, but does anyone have any advice on other creative lending strategies?

I'd rather get creative and find returns in places where not many others are because this usually means higher returns. 

Too much nonsense from cash tenants and this was BEFORE the pandemic.A (now previous) property management company (who shall remain nameless) started getting creative in figuring out ways to NOT rent out to Section 8 tenants, even when I made it 100% clear that it what I wanted.

She has some YouTube videos, find a contact number and consult with her....the best money you could spend here.  

After years of "I'd like to eventually do that" and window shopping YouTube videos of peoples success with REI I have reached a point where I think I'm ready.My wife and I have relocated out of state to Orlando for her job.

If you want to get more familiar with creative financing, here is a great podcast to listen to: http://www.thecreativefinancin...I am not affiliated in any way, just a fan (not a fan boy). 

As others stated, you can absolutely charge for cleaning costs unless your contract (lease agreement states otherwise) or unless your state laws state otherwise.Document everything in writing with photo and video for evidence.