You seem very green, I would highly suggest finding a property management company to do this for your while you learn the ropes and how things work.However, you can also get a copy of "The Book on Managing Rental Properties" by Brandon Turner, and get some really good information.The main one's to consider are:Background check - totally clear, or will you allow certain thingsEviction history - totally clear, or will you allow if no evictions for last xx yearsIncome Requirement - usually 3x the cost of rentCredit History - totally clear, or will you allow certain thingsPets - yes or no, size, type, number of pets allowed, extra pet deposit/feeAgain, I highly suggest a property manager to assist you with this.

I am basically end up ina  nice size apartment with yard for about $500 after top unit goes towards the mortgage. 

Hi Jamie, thank you.How do you target mid-size companies?

Lets talk :) What type of unit size are you looking for - small duplexes/triplexes or more of large unit multis?

Typically a rule of thumb is with no experience and average credit you are looking at 15-20% down depending on the rehab size and complexity. 

There is no 1-size-fit's-all, it's about your personal "zen".

To be successful right now in STR, you either need to go all out and beat everyone else on their table stakes (pickleball, basketball, game rooms, saunas, hot tubs, etc.) or you need to understand the market better than anyone and pick a niche for that market.Right now, you are one post in and just asking for someone to tell you anywhere in the United States to invest, which is silly.

@Jonathan Feliciano Ask yourself what competitive edge does this boots on the ground partner brings to the table a reputable GC and PM can’t provide?

There is no better way to learn than watching real world first hand.The rich teach their children about money through first hand experience and at the dinner table.

Together they are 0.92 acre, which is a nice size.