Zoning varies, so always check the local regulations for your specific needs.Financing: While cash purchases are common, financing options are available through local banks and credit unions.

Any best practices or things you have found that have worked well for you?

The same is true for all of the other ways in which we source residents.So what does mean practically?

Key words or demographics I should focus on.3) when a property is under contract (especially if it isn't local) what services or practices are used to get pictures for marketing, showing the property, inspections, etc?

There is practically no amount of money that would get you there.Market on VRBO and/or Airbnb and call it done.

As a fellow Northerner, I tend to buy in the Southern half of the US for 2 reasons:1) you get much higher year-round occupancy rates in the South & it’s simply tough to earn a good ROI in the North if your place sits vacant for a big chunk of the year2) Culturally, the Southern half of the US seems to be a lot more accepting of STRs regulation-wise.

And it was a nightmare mainly because of HOA politics, rules/regulations, etc especially if you want to make certain renovations to the unit.

Further, you must be admitted to (or employed by) the company that is selling the securities, as the securities exemption being claimed, usually Regulation D, Rule 506, only applies to the “issuer” of the securities. 

There's a bill in AR that hopefully will get passed which would stop local municipalities from enforcing regulation on STR.

Deregulation Push: Streamlining housing development regulations and approval processes2.