Fortunately, the Short Term Shop teaches you all of these things once you are under contract and through the inspection period.  

I wonder how the Shop STR app compares to the others.

Usually it's not RE meet-ups, more likely it's golf clubs, private bars, coffee shops in affluent areas, ski areas, etc.

This website would include a walk-through video, more photos, information on what to do in the area, shopping recommendations, places to go, and things to see.

Some design and amenity ideas:+ Welcoming living space with plush seating for family hangouts+ Coffee bar or stocked tea station for early mornings before campus events+ Dining table or breakfast nook perfect for family meals+ Dedicated workspace for parents who need to check in on workFor sports fans, tap into their game-day energy and make your STR the go-to spot for a fun, convenient stay:+ Big, comfortable seating & a great TV setup (think oversized couch, streaming sports channels)+ Game-day essentials like a mini fridge stocked with game-day snacks/drinks+ Outdoor space with a grill & seating for pre- or post-game gatherings+ Good parking (sports fans hate scrambling)+ Team spirit decor touches (subtle, not tacky—think framed sports prints, not full-on mascot murals)Your design & reviews will do most of the marketing but to market directly to these guests:🎯 List your STR on sites where parents and alumni book (if allowed)🎯 Partner with local businesses—coffee shops, sports bars, or tailgate services—where your ideal guests hang out🎯 Optimize your listing title and description with phrases like “Perfect for Visiting Parents & College Game Days”🎯 Time any discounts/promotions around major campus events—homecoming, graduation, big rivalry gamesThink of it this way, you’re not just offering a place to stay—you’re creating an experience they’ll want to book again and again.

They seem to be electronic brokers that will shop for insurance in a pool of carriers.

Or... the other nice thing about these accounts is that you could also shop CD rates.

You can try to shop with other lenders but you need money in reserves and for closing costs. 

Happy to help if still shopping around lenders. 

Then start shopping for houses, don't engage in FOMO or real estate agent pressure.