I operate several mid term rentals and I'm still a big fan. 

Banks aren't really in the business of lending to real estate investors anyway...they focus primarily on "operating entities", but they can be done.

It is discussed at most of these meet ups I go to (usually in the networking that is before and after the organized meeting).  

I know if we operated short term rentals I would need additional VAs plus it would be more headache for the team. 

You learn a lot of operational experience by just owning 1 rental as a long-term rental.

As a beginner, I want to operate an ethical and sound business.

I know a lot of the TK sales organizations glossed over this aspect years ago but everyone of them has a license these days..

Heloc or DSCR HELOC so you can operate with cash in hand.

Quote from @Joe Budkiewicz: Quote from @Corby Goade: Quote from @Joe Budkiewicz: Quote from @Corby Goade: I own and operate a property management company- we don't mark up invoices and provide anything our clients want to see. 

before you go down the rabbit hole to far as @Bruce Lynn mentioned see if the jurisdiction were the lots are located will even allow a surface operation within their zoning code or that lot size.. thats the first thing I would do.Being an old land man I have dealt with a ton of mineral and water rights.. there is a lot to those buggers..