It might be helpful to narrow down your options by focusing and researching for markets with strong rental demand, growing job markets, and property prices that fit within your budget.

Ditto, I use PriceLabs for my STRs - here is a nice writeup ...Airbnb Smart Pricing Vs PriceLabs: An In-Depth Comparison For Hosts | Boost Your Short-Term Rentals

Nice place for you to enjoy as well.

Consider population trends, job growth, and economic stability in these areas.2.

Licensed contractors have more of their "shtuff" together and thus are better at their job and naturally will cost more.

All the posts do a good job of highlighting the importance of a long term view when acquiring property.

So I get this referral from a relative about a tenant who has good credit score, no criminal history, and a good paying job.

Columbus also has great macroeconomics - lots of job growth, population growth, and major employers developing here.

A good DST would absorb the rest of your debt nicely.

My sacrifice… no haircuts and no fast food. 1 job full time, 1 full time side hustle. 0 debt at the time other than student loans.