However, if the intent is to buy a home when you return, I would not invest in anything that has risk.

This is intentional. 

The companies you mention have been around for a while and have stood the test of time.They have stood the test of time in a niche called "turnkey real estate" that has always carried a stigma.So I think that speaks volumes of their quality 👍Nobody is perfect and those that work hard, will eventually make a mistake.As long as the mistake is an "honest mistake".And being a turnkey provider myself for 10+ years now I can sure say that some investors can be a true pain in the A$$ and it feels like they look for drama/issues intentionally instead of smooth sailing lolWith that said, I suggest doing your online research and reaching out to the one that tickles your fancy the most.And then go from there.Wishing you much success.

I have no intentions of quitting my job or shutting down my business, but want to  buy and use properties to help grow my equity and help me develop a 20+ property portfolio, creating a nest egg for 15+ years down the road, when I retire. 

All of the things you are stating - like an Air BNB listing, actual rental, postings for rent, etc are great tools to reinforce your intent and use as investment. 

Yes I basically tapped out all the free content, I learned a lot of great stuff but I also saw he intentionally guards his rule sets.

@Thomas Beard I know this diverges from the intent of your post, but I think there’s a valuable lesson for other investors to learn from your story.

Been vacant 2+ years, but have been taking the depreciation as had the intent to rent. 

There is not a time limit for how long it has to be owner occupied but the intent must be to live in it.

@Bobby WilliamsIf the intent is to sell it back to them it could be construed as fraudulent.Has the bank even approved the selling of the home via short sale?