However, if using our property as a STR via Airbnb or another platform, would we be required to go the option of a Mexican Corporation instead in order to get an RFC? 

Meetup and eventbrite seem to be the other platforms that people post them in.

5 tips i should keep in my mind when buying  rental property? 

This is a common misconception but we're an online platform where the owner chooses their own price and selects their own tenants.

Also, Dealmachine has consistent tech issues with everything and most times it's unresolved.

I just wasn't sure how you'd exactly bypass Airbnb or VRBO platforms. 

So, why would you NOT factor in a car payment when determining the liklihood of an applicant paying their rent consistently on time?

However, we will likely need a property manager to assist with some facets of running this rental (since we would not live locally) and would primarily market it through platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO to start, (eventually setting up a direct booking process).Here's our question for those who have experience in STR's or who might be involved in a similar scenario: How challenging is it to meet the material participation hours needed to achieve active status?

This will consist of finding a good deal that requires some work and is below market value, and making sure your contractor is accurate with the budget and executes the work as stated in the contract.

We've rented out some of our best investment properties (New Construction/Turnkey) to Sec 8 residents, and the rent guarantee always helps in achieving consistent cash flow each month.