The biggest challenge seems to be finding lenders that offer these loan products which is where I’m looking for help from the community with recommended lenders that serve Texas.The Fannie Mae (or Freddie Mac) options are preferred over FHA purely because of the (perhaps perceived) limit on renovation funds that the FHA option provides.

Yes, I have been very happy with the team at True Home Ohio.

House HackAttend as many REI meetups as you can to grow your network of investors for referrals, help through challenges you may incur but don't have experience with, and learn from proven guest speakersNetworking app like blinq to compile all of your contacts for REI in one area with phone and emailbegin conversations with local credit unions exploring what type of loan products they offer

My challenge is that I don't know when exactly I will be able to obtain the STR permit from the city, so I don't want to convert guests too prematurely. 

Managing vacation rentals remotely sounds like a unique challenge..

Too good to be true is also a huge red flag.

I'll be the bald one in a blue Kentucky polo, unless my manbun dreams miraculously come true in the next few hours.

Challenges?

Corona impacts will greatly impact this surplus but it is nice that the state had a $9B surplus.CA, over the last 10 years, had the 2nd largest net population increase of all 50 states (last I looked - I believe it to still be true). 

However, I’ve been hesitant due to challenges like remote management, high interest rates, and low cash flow.