I have been trying to save up money but it is not near a down payment for a traditional loan.

But it’s also saving me taxes. :-))But yes, I could take a $200k or $300k tax free loan every year on the appreciation if I couldn’t manage to make ends meet at $20k/mo.

Quote from @Jonathan Snider: I have been saving up for a while to purchase my first STR.

It sounds like you’re in a great position to get started—$100k saved up and a clear goal are huge advantages.

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

If you're going to run a successful business renovating houses, ultimately you being proficient at/and or managing said proficiency in estimating will be a crucial part of your underwriting.Google "how to estimate house remodeling" your hard work will be rewarded.

They will save you time and money. 

It's great that you're focused on saving and educating yourself before diving into real estate.

@Matthew Brown, I am not in this investment, but I would love to hear what drew you to it in the first place: how you heard of Fairway America, why you ultimately chose to invest with them and in this project?

Do the math and you'll see it doesn't make sense.The best way to invest: increase earnings, reduce expenses, and save.