because we have a strong demand for them and great str laws.The Triangle is visited year-round by travelling professionals in the research, medical, IT, and education space.

Second question is, if we don't live in the city we will invest in, we understand we will have to be traveling often, but who could be a good person to check in on the construction so we don't have to go every week?

Living in a great travel destination like Sonoma you should consider a duplex or triplex and operate the other unit(s) on AirBNB, VRBO, etc.

MTR attracts a lot of traveling medical professionals and WFH individuals who need a quiet space during the day, which may not be compatible with families living in the attached LTR.

Focus on learning the basics of MTRs, including their appeal to traveling professionals and the need for furnished properties.

Quote from @Steve Tse: Hi BP, What insurance carriers can you recommend in Texas, as I am shopping around to replace my landlords policy that I currently have with Travelers ?

Lastly, check any shared doors or gaps and add door sweeps or weatherstripping to block sound from traveling between the units. 

It does create problems when you have inexperienced home and business owners in operation and renting to inexperienced homeowners (this STR caters to young travelers coming to the city).

Many property owners rented, and decided not to rebuild, but to sell their homes and use the money to invest, travel, etc., staying in rentals.

EPA violations typically travel with ownership.