IE rent to a tenant for >12 mo,  dating before marriage, no late payments then with a down paymetn (long story here)  I'll sell on either a contract for deed (typically mobile homes on land) or a note and mortgage (regular nicer houses). 

Whether it's a private chat group, email support, or regular check-ins, make sure there’s a way to get ongoing help.7.

I plan to manage the properties myself until it conflicts with my regular job.I would appreciate any advice on these markets to ensure success and connect with local investors.

I will do my regular due diligence when dealing with a new partnership and any deals they find. 

If there is more demand than supply, this will be the outcome in desirable areas. 

This imbalance intensifies buyer competition, driving up home prices as demand outstrips supply.2.

I make my regular interest-only payments for the first 7 or 8 months, and my interest-only period lasts 5 years.

@Holly Thorsen see above for potential challenges tapping your equity in the rental.You only need 5% down for a regular mortgage, 3% down for an FHA mortgage - so why don't you have the funds?

Given the property is located in the Poconos and the property is vacant more regularly as an STR there are proactive measures  you should  be taking such as making sure there are heating sources so that the plumbing does not freeze and ensuring there are no blocks in the plumbing lines with routine checks.

Its been a wild ride though doing all this through massive inflation and supply chain issue and Covid..