But I heard a podcast from Tax Smart Real Estate Investors (link below) on house hacking which notes that if part of the residence is used exclusively for STR, section 280A loss limitations shouldn’t apply.

The newer property should keep things low-maintenance, which is smart for your first investment.

A solid W2 income can be a big advantage when it comes to securing investment property loans, so it's smart that you're recognizing that.

With your saved capital and no major obligations like high rent, you’re in a good position to make a smart move.

In my personal opinion, I wouldn’t be as worried with some of the niche items, like a surround sound system, smart features, sauna.

You can save money by buying smart, but don't buy cheap/lower quality because you get what you pay for and it may cost you down the road.

This is a very smart start - "Short-term goal/first milestone".

And while we are on the subject, it is smart to protect your assets by using advantages that company structure offers.

But then again, I also expected a smart-a$$ comment from you.

Donating appreciated securities to a charitable organization can be a smart way to give, both for you and the charity.