(but again, I feel this should be part of pre-investment due-diligence).

I would disagree with number 2 - in this environment, heavy rate buydowns are a common tool in the toolkit for lenders and borrowers to make deals work and are in no way indicative of "not being well-capitalized"That’s a fair point in regards to doing a buy down, we see that quite often but we roll the buy down into the loan so those aren’t paid at closing, thus not costing the borrower funds out of pocket at the time of purchase or refinance. 

I’d appreciate some feedback on my current approach and advice if any.Here’s what I’ve done so far:Pre-Approval: I’ve secured a pre-approval amount and interest rate from an online mortgage lender.Property Analysis: I’m using the mortgage and STR calculators from BiggerPockets to assess the financials for potential properties.Neighborhood Research: I’ve been exploring different neighborhoods using Niche to get insights into schools, safety, and livability.AirDNA: I’m considering subscribing to AirDNA for data on occupancy rates and rental income estimates.Questions:Is AirDNA worth the investment for STR data?

Back in the day when I sold rural ranch lands pre google earth you needed to be able to read and understand USGS quad maps and a compass and understand from certain points on the ground you had compass declination's just like when your flying. 

I have already been pre-qualified for a loan. 

We eventually figured out that they were using like half of a roll each time because they were terrified waste might touch their hands.

(you may want to pick out several based on different lot situations)Based on your plan you should be able to get estimates, You can either go to builders with their plans and ask them their cost to build pre sq.ft. or sq.m, or you can get actual pricing based on your plan. 

Buyers if you want an extra advantage over other buyers call your favorite Mortgage Banker and ask for a "Fully Underwritten" approval not just a Pre-approval.

@Tanner Sortillo- thanks - I would have the new investor get a solid idea of financing options and for them to get formally pre-approved for a hypothetical scenario. 

I would not advise working with any PM unless they are able to provide all of the necessary reports for the property - Cash Flow, Income Statement, rent rolls, T12, etc.