Testing the market may get you an offer you're looking for!

Lexington is a weird market with low occupancy, 90-92%, and there aren't many assets in the market.

So back to being a real estate investor: the only way to be one is to buy a property and create value out of it, whether through finding a below market value house and selling for a profit, or renting and creating cash flow.  

Are there better markets or hybrid approaches I should consider (e.g., smaller multifamily properties that accept Section 8 tenants)?

They are on the market longer and are not going at asking prices but some people are still being very aggressive with their asking prices so it really isn't a great indicator.

Are you a buyer in the Arizona Market?

For example, we've recently taken over marketing internally because the property management company was not experienced enough in using the newer advertising methods we need to pursue.

Here are some of the more longstanding discussions that may help to answer your questions.Specifically at Rent To Retirement, we operate a turnkey marketplace that focuses about 90% on A class, new construction properties located in growth markets.

Congratulations on jumping into the STR market. 

I'm a 1 man flipper and looking to get into the VA market.