But it’s been really great having them in this environment/ touching on the investment life education (ex; we live upstairs ..’shh no jumping and running..it’s late and we have tenants’) / starting our family here. 

In a volatile interest rate environment the cap rates have significant lag time in reflecting the interest rate at which the property can secure.

Are there any resources here that can help me create an investor-friendly agent environment so I'm not turning away investors due to misunderstandings on both our parts?

It was too easy to make money in STRs and MTRs over the last several years but as we return to a more normal environment that's no longer the case.

Optimized doesn't just mean your digital environment, but all the basics like making sure the rooms look photogenic and have an Instagrammable moment, having backups off all bedding and replaceable items so your property always looks like the pictures, setting up strategic partnerships with local businesses, tour guides, etc...As far as management - make sure to have a handful of cleaners and contractors on good terms. 

Problem I have with that is there are no other shutters on my house and the green ick that sometimes appears on Hardiplank in Houston’s humid environment that has to be power washed or JoMaxed off. 

So my question is, considering the environment and my situation, how should I determine whether a property would be a decent deal? 

Last thought is that the foreclosure might have competition or might be able to work a deal, depending on your local environment.  

Someone with a small stake, that will let you run the show, but gives you some operating capital.What I'd add here is that no one is talking about the landlord environment in CA.

Hey Nathan, I just Joined as well and I am interested in mutually navigating an environment that is new to both of us.