I’m most impressed with the fact that you studied real estate and real estate markets for a year before investing; that you scanned the possibilities, chose what you considered the best opportunity, and went all in.  

These tax deductions do not require you to become a real estate professional.

Hopefully with the upcoming rental market you will get better vetted tenants in AR. 

Quote from @Joy Daniels: I manage short-term rentals in the Sarasota area, and I'm always looking for innovative ways to boost occupancy rates year-round.From your experience, what marketing strategies have had the biggest impact on keeping your properties booked?

It sounds like you have a great background for investing as well as assisting other real estate investors in buying suitable real estate. 

We manage several hundred rental properties throughout the San Diego market and I found your post very interesting. 

DSCR loans are based off of down payment, credit score and either actual or market rents so it helps to supercharge an investor's real estate goals and net worth.

It's not RTR's fault the property can't absorb proper cap ex, that's a product of the market.

It’s awesome to see your excitement for real estate investing, and congrats on your first land sale, that’s a great milestone!

Do you have a preferred type of property and price range you're looking for in general (knowing the costs can be different based on they market)?