On the tax side, I would encourage you to partner with a knowledgeable real estate CPA who can guide you through the transaction to ensure you can meet the qualifications of the STR loophole.

I'd encourage you to evaluate the REIT first, then the DST second.

Has anyone else had any experience with any of these platforms?

I'm not currently encouraging investors to do unincorporated JeffCo for that reason - they've become more strict/unfriendly over time.

Private lending platforms and some online real estate networks also list these types of cash-only opportunities.

When they finally move out, you'll discover a ton of unreported maintenance and possibly damage caused by failure to maintain.Landlords should encourage tenants to report maintenance issues.

I would really encourage you to talk to your CPA to ensure you meet material participation tests and are adequately documented.

I’d encourage you to go to the local events like @Jonathan Klemm mentioned. 

I'd encourage using it to fund a fix and flip or BRRRR.

As well, these platforms are designed to acknowledge the different payment types and dates.