I have been using a deal analyzer spreadsheet that I found some time ago and that has served me well for analyzing "normal" deals with a downpayment and lender financing. 

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

-AdrianI am quite pleased with my Capital Square DST.

Then look at places where you can buy those properties, and last investigate with HUD what is the section 8 rental in those areas.In that way, you will collect a lot of knowledge in the process.

I’m currently exploring both short-term and long-term rentals but haven’t decided which route to take yet—so I’d really appreciate any advice from those with experience!

If you want to stay in your house, then your only option would be to leverage equity which will probably be in the 8-10% interest rate range.Not knowing the entire situation, I think you could consider downsizing and then using the proceeds to buy a 2-4 unit property and start making $40-75K right away with still no debt. 

It’s awesome to have someone with your experience in renovations, staging, and investment properties in the mix!

But coming up with financing is hard if you're just getting started.

I want to share my experience with Jenny Yi, an STR designer in case others have had similar issues.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?