Some lenders might offer more favorable terms if the property is part of an affordable housing program.By combining grants, specialized loans, and local programs, you can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for renovations and improvements while supporting affordable housing in your community.

These deductions reduce your taxable income, which helps maximize your profits.Finally, real estate provides diversification for your investment portfolio.

I'm working on various projects to get it ready to rent and reduce the immediate capex expenditures once a tenant is in there. 

Reduce local building expenses, fees, encourage investments where people want to be.

Paying down your mortgage may reduce the entire term of the loan and save you thousands if you actually hold the property that long without refinancing. 

I liked the reduced crowds more intimate event than especially last year’s event.  

To reduce expenses.

In your situation, it sounds like the primary focus for you is more a quality of life play (reducing your commute time), and the STR may allow you to break even cash flow wise? 

At that point I might be considered to be engaging in brokerage with my role reduced to a "lead generator" for my contacts/employers, the Buyers, who are essentially paying me a finders fee.

You can often hire them at a reduced rate.