I have been narrowing down some markets and trying to explore/research more and network.

It sounds like mistakes were made on the properties but I'm also questioning the market (you didn't say where these are). 

What strategies have worked best for marketing midterm rentals in secondary or smaller markets like Portsmouth?

I see some conservative areas here who would traditionally support private property rights coming down heavy against STRs.

As an aside, insurance companies are inspecting most properties one way or another in the current market. 

Did you guys ever raise private money?

.🔹 Profit Multiple Ways – You can rent the property for cash flow, sell the option at a profit, or buy it later at a pre-agreed price (often below market value).🔹 Great for Sellers & Investors – Motivated sellers can turn a vacant or hard-to-sell property into income while investors secure future deals without a huge upfront commitment.🔹 Ideal in Any Market – Whether home prices are rising or falling, lease options allow you to lock in today’s price while benefiting from future appreciation.Other creative strategies—like seller financing, subject-to deals, and the BRRRR method—can also open doors, but lease options remain one of the most powerful, low-risk, minimal cash out-of-pocket ways to build a portfolio.

I'm eager to grow my book of business in various markets and connect with active wholesalers.

-why not pick a market closer to home? 

Southern Maine is a great market for long-term rentals, with strong demand in many areas.