If it were me, I would reach out to other franchisees in your area (perhaps your Development Agent might have some insight...see...I know the Subway lingo and I've done Subways in my banking days).

Additionally, please share if this was a scam or not.

Appreciate any advice or insights from experienced landlords or investors!

My primary focus is on maximizing cash flow.Does anyone has experience with STRs in Aspen, I’d love to hear your advice or insights!

I’d appreciate insights on leveraging existing equity or optimizing cash deployment for portfolio growth.Looking forward to your thoughts.thanks

Since this would be my first long term rental property do you recommend starting with a property manager from the beginning or managing the property myself.I understand that there are pros and cons to all of these scenarios, I'm just looking for various insights.

Any insights, connections, or resources from experienced investors would be incredibly helpful!

Another option would be working with private lenders to see if they're open to your idea should you need additional funding. 

@Bayo Badejo, there are so many missing pieces here to even begin to give a real answer.What insights are you wanting?  

Thanks in advance for your insight!