Are there any STR operators that are seeing dramatic improvements in their business by driving direct bookings? 

You can get an investment property without a job but its an entirely new animal and usually requires a very high credit and a good chunk of capital.Typically the bank wants 6-12 months of employment history so get that job and live as lean as possible to build up your savings and research ways to boost your credit to mid 700's if possible. 

Some negative factors:-all that’s been mentioned about risks with townhome HOA’s-having 90+ units mostly the same can slow down appreciation dramatically.

I'm skeptical that only $2000 in repairs is going to boost your ARV  to $150k (which is, admittedly, still low for the Heights). 

& @Edward B.The use of leverage in an IRA can be a very powerful strategy to boost ROI. 

Prices have dramatically increased in the last year or two, but look to be stabilizing.

I figure if i find a good deal that doesnt require too much time or money in repairs and find a suitable renter, its more cashflow to give me that little boost to get started before i can make some waves.So my question or advice that im seeking is, when i do find the deal(s) that i like, do you think it would be more beneficial for my situation to buy at 3.5% down and buy more houses that way in order to get the ball rolling or put down 20% on one house?  

What happens at 6 years that boosts your cash flow  $200/month?

One of my clients is opening an office there, and it looks like a good chance to grow with his company while also dramatically reducing my living expenses (and getting to ride my bike a lot more).My Real Estate Interests, Experience, and GoalsI don't have any experience investing in real estate.

Obviously you don't have a mortgage so that boosts the bottom line.