The increasing barrier to entry results in fewer new STR's coming available for sale, but also fewer options for guests to rent. 

Curious if there are software options for managing both types of rentals.

Conventional can be a good starting point for your first properties because of the lower rates, but for entities and if you are planning to scale, DSCRs are great option since they focus on the property’s rental income rather than your personal income.

I figure if the equity we have cash flows better than similar equity in a single family residence in Utah would, then we should consider this AITD as a serious option.

I was originally drawn to it because I wanted to have one place where all my tenants paid rent and where they had the option to set up auto payments. 

After 45 + years as a real estate investor, broker, lender, fund manager and syndicator, I’ve become aware that the “dream” of many investors and investor “hopefuls” is to be able to generate enough cash flow to live off their real estate holdings and accumulate enough wealth to make “work” optional.

Find the style that people are doing in the area then find equivalent options for materials at local supply houses.

Have you spoken to an immigration lawyer about your options? 

I would go with option A.

Once I get the homeowner to sign the assignment,  do you want to be the first option to review the numbers and possibly buy ?