They've gone as far as writing algorithms that pull data points like crime rates, age, median income, number of coffee shops and hundreds of others to create heat maps of where to buy.  

For example, two of my goals are to achieve a certain percentage for my IRR (internal rate of return), and a certain % for my cash on cash return. 

Right now, I’m seeing max LTVs closer to 80% on purchases, though before COVID, we sometimes went up to 85%.Also, keep an eye out for lenders who promise amazing terms but demand large commitment fees upfront.

By the time it was all over, the court fees, attorney fees ate up the entire EMD and then some --- this seller never intended to sell the house. 

It's free to sign up for an account and the savings account has a very competitive interest rate.

Looking at a property that would be a somewhat turnkey STR, it has great numbers and occupancy rates.

•Work with lenders that roll fees into closing costs(some hard money lenders do this).

Long-term, look into refinancing once property values increase to lower your interest rate or pull equity for your next investment.Good luck!

Should I use a co-host just to get off the ground on a good foot and rack up some solid 5 star ratings, then transition to self sufficient down the road?   

And also that rates are just going to continue to be an issue, so it's likely something to plan for in rent rates and/or overall investment costs.