Ensure you collect a proper security deposit (typically one month's rent in Florida) to cover potential damages.Your plan to increase rent next year makes sense given rising costs (taxes, insurance, and maintenance).

It’s also worth verifying if Beaumont and Port Arthur have any specific contractor registration or insurance requirements, as local compliance can sometimes impact project timelines. 

What is your plan to obtain this dream?

Can anyone recommend a PM, specifically that work on the west side of Cincy?

If you plan to scale, I would get one right away on your first property.

These are all things I am trying to plan for. 

It's a 3 bedroom house and we plan to use technology such as a smart lock, WIFI exterior cameras, and a smart thermostat.

Any luck on motivating realtors in the area to actually get operating expenses/lease agreements for Jackson County specifically George?

You have to dig a little deeper there are questions that need to be addressed and VOE's filled out with specifics in order to use certain incomes and "stipends".Similar to a traveling nurse who get housing, meals, and other income. 

Honestly, Tampa checks all the boxes for cash flow, appreciation, and long-term growth, so let me know if you need more specifics or help with a plan!