If anyone has any tips or tricks to a first-timer, feel free to leave a reply (especially curious about standard practices for identifying deals).

So, unless you are an SEO manager, I think that's a tough road to go down. 1:1 link exchanges go against Google's guidelines and best practices so I wouldn't advocate for that. https://developers.google.com/search/docs/essentials/spam-policiesMost one-size-fits-all all SEO companies are going to want to spend a lot of your management fee doing work that real estate investor-focused SEO companies don't need to do. 

Written by attorney investors, it's full of practical advice pertaining to management of investment property, has sample forms that can be edited, and - most importantly - they tell you what your primary state laws are and where you can read them.

Highly unethical company What practices do they do specifically that were unethical?

I agree with you that this may not be common practice in different markets, my experience with HOAs is only in the state of NJ.

PREDATORY business practices, truly shameful.

It will give you a strong foundation in legalities and best practices.

I have been learning the investor language, though still working on applying and practicing as I’ve worked with investor clients who flip, as well as do STR and LTR.

Any other best practices or things to consider are of course welcome. 

But best practices for Security Deposits (and last month's rent or other funds held in TRUST) is to keep it separate from your operating funds to avoid commingling and using funds for other than their intended purpose.