Instead they have worthless, patched, barely livable trailers, complete eyesores.You need to call your local building permit office and see what their requirements are for homes.

Short Term Rental - This is the permit you would apply for when pursuing a non-owner-occupied STR in the R-1, R-2, R-3, RSL, RSM, PR, OS-1 and OS zones. 

I have been doing some research but I need more specific information about things like buying the land and the permit issues and utilities and things like this.

I know that in Mississippi the rule of thumb seems to be that as long as the lot can meet the frontage requirements, construction is permitted.

Get your permitting department on board first as well in your county.Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Both electrical and water meters will need to be assessed by the city via city permitting.

- Has anyone else in Tobyhanna recently obtained an STR permit?

Most of our clients have their property in their own name (we do property management for STRs and MTRs).Every city has it's own rules for STR permits, whether you're allowed to STR at all, taxes, fees, etc.

This home came equipped with an above-the-garage addition (600sqft) the flippers added on (permitted).

You are being VERY NAIVE if you seriously think someone is going to manage a $10k+ project and spend HOURS chasing contractors, checking on permits, verifying work is done properly before payment and trying to keep everyone on schedule - for no additional charge.Best of luck, just don't blame anyone but yourself when you find out the truth the hard way.