Sandwich leases / AirBNB

[Sonia Peak]

We are beginner real estate investors (Phoenix area), and we want to get into the STR / vacation rental market. I have read that many people do “sandwich leases” or “sublet agreements” on a lease in order to turn around and list in on AirBNB for profit. This interests me, because it would be nice to try out a certain area to see if it’s profitable before creating a higher risk situation by putting a bunch of money into purchasing a place. My question is: 1) how do you find landlords willing to allow you to sublet as a STR? 2) has anyone had luck sending letters/emails with a proposal to a landlord? Any advice is appreciated. Thanks!!