The STR world is tough here in Colorado, but the basics of success remain the same: Unique or interesting home or design and furnishings, several fun amenities, and great photographs.

Most people are just not built for that.So, if you are not analytical, stick to the basics.

A few things to think about:• Two years is enough time to benefit from house hacking.If the rent from the other unit can meaningfully offset your housing costs, you’re basically reducing what you’d be paying in rent anyway — and building equity while you live there.• Bellingham’s prices are higher, but demand is steady.Vacancy is typically low, and smaller multifamily properties tend to hold value well.

I’ve seen success by keeping builds very simple and conservative, modest square footage, basic finishes, and layouts that match nearby homes rather than trying to introduce something “new.”

I've basically been told that.

Relatively basic question but this is my first purchase with installed tenants.

Some DIY providers like room42.io offer "audit insurance" - basically they'll send an engineer if you do get audited.For renovation work specifically, make sure whoever you use has detailed records of what was replaced.

I’m focused on minimizing further damage and making a clean, forward-looking decision.Can you provide a few basic details?

-if you purchase, rehab and refinance a property - basically a BRRRR - it's not going to cash flow in the short term. at all.  

I'd likely get rid of Pricelabs also & see about just using AirBNB "smart pricing" & some basic research with comps.