I had a similar situation.

The biggest advantage of using someone local to where you're buying is that they will understand taxes, insurance, and similar items very well when it comes to DTI/DSCR calculations and payment quotes, and they will likely have a local network of service providers for ancillary services (survey, inspections, etc).

My vision includes developing the land into a destination with features like driveways, walking paths, utilities, and unique lodging structures.Here’s my tentative plan1.Place the existing STR in an LLC2.Apply for an SBA small business loan to fund the next steps, including a feasibility study (~$10k+), land clearing, and infrastructure development.While this direction excites me, I’m torn between pursuing this venture and continuing with a more traditional approach—buying one home per year using conventional loans.I’d love to hear your thoughts:•Has anyone transitioned from STRs to glamping or similar ventures?

I would appreciate tips from anyone who has experience making this model work in these areas or similar markets.Looking forward to your advice and recommendations!

Thus, they are appraised as such - valued based off the sales comp approach - i.e how much have other similar single family homes sold for?

Google something similar to "low cost commission free variable annuity". 

I used some photos with a similar aesthetic but made it very clear these are not the final photos.

Make sure you understand their timeline for funding—speed can be crucial for flips—and their experience with similar projects.Look for a lender with clear communication, transparency, and flexibility.

As a CA native and former out of state investor I went through some similar issues back in 2021 when I got started. 

Seems like a similar thing happened in San Francisco 5-6 years ago.