They are some of the more sought after homes, and it can be tough to get a good deal if you aren't well positioned.

In light of the fact that the leases are a scam I would not feel guilty but would still try to prove the leases are not valid first. 

For a group like this, even with experienced investors, you have to prove that you have that experience which can take some time, and on top of that they tend to need a certain experience threshold within a certain period of time (usually 3-5 years).

It would cost them more in legal fees/time to take you to court and prove their case, which they would win.You've obviously never had a tenant move out on you in the 11th hour. 

Investing out-of-state is tough and finding a strong PM in these cheaper markets is equally difficult.

(Mic drop)"You're asking to prove a negative, which is the 2nd logical fallacy you've made in this thread.

So, agree with @Nathan Gesner about letting the tenant prove there is unhealthy mold issue.Will point out though, that there is probably mold behind the shower tile walls.

Of course, I can't prove the above information.

Using borrowed money is going to make it difficult because you're putting extra pressure on whatever you buy, and with prices and rates high it's going to be tough to get a return for years or even decades.  

It has been tough to find anybody with the city who can give me direct answers about the rules of running a STR there though.