Underwriting & Financial DisciplineMany STR owners bought emotionally — operators run models.Cash Flow Model: Build underwriting that includes all real costs (cleaning fees, utilities, management %, CapEx reserves, and realistic vacancy).Dynamic Pricing Software: Beyond Pricing, PriceLabs, or Wheelhouse to maximize ADR and occupancy.12-Month P&L Tracking: Monthly financial reviews comparing projected vs. actuals.Stress Testing: Underwrite for worst-case scenarios (20% occupancy drop, ADR compression, regulatory tax hits).System: Quarterly Financial Review SOP — Reconcile P&L, re-forecast cash flow, adjust pricing, and reset CapEx reserves every 90 days.7.

The benefit for you is that by keeping consistent partners, you not only protect your score but also speed up the refinance process and create more trust, which makes scaling smoother.

It's like saying - there is a speed trap there, so do not speed on that stretch.

If the market cools while you’re holding a flip, do you adjust your exit strategy, lower your ARV expectations, or just ride it out?

Using a private money lender for an investment property can be better than traditional bank financing primarily due to speed, flexibility, and less strict qualification requirements.

What’s been working for me and my circle lately:Seller financing: solve the seller’s problem first; short-term interest-only with a balloon after value-add keeps cash flow strong.Sub-to/wraps: take over low-rate loans and keep the seller whole—huge when DSCR is tight.Hybrid: small seller carry + private second to cut cash in, then refi into DSCR once stable.Private money: secure with note + mortgage/deed, pay on milestones, send updates—consistency = repeat capital.HELOC/LOC stack: close fast, cover rehab, then refi—speed wins deals.Lease-option: control now, improve, then exercise once financing improves.

I still use the 70% rule as a starting point, but I adjust based on neighborhood demand and current rehab costs.

Also, hard money can be a powerful tool for speed and flexibility, but it's key to build in enough margin so you’re not squeezed during the refi.Underwriting guidelines can vary a lot, so it helps to work with lenders who understand both BRRRR timelines and investor goals.Feel free to reach out anytime if you need any help!

I’m curious — for those of you actively investing right now:What’s been your biggest financing roadblock — down payment, speed to close, or loan structure? 

The reps build speed and intuition.