Maybe a STR makes sense because there's less competition.

Do you think there will be a lot of competition? 

Talking to friends and reading local FB forums, there seems to be a severe housing shortage for rentals, prices seem much higher than in the past, and the market is very competitive. 

A fixer upper would be more likely to get a deal on.Certain areas like Orlando are very saturated and therefore competitive to keep rented at a good price.Research insurance premiums because they have gone through the roof in Florida and other areas.

It also shows sellers that you are a serious buyer, making your offer more attractive in a competitive market.

There just simply isn’t as much money to be made for the average Host in 2024.This increased competition, lower rates and occupancy, overly optimistic underwriting and lower travel demand post COVID travel boom does warrant a reasonable label such as “Airbnbbust”.TLDRThe environment has fundamentally changed and operators have had to do a lot more than simply list a property to profit heftily.

Less competition for you!

These, for the most part, prevent wild "bad faith" moves.Other investments I have like DSTs and crowdfunding involve actually owning a fraction of a physical building or complex.

Understand the demand, seasonal trends, local regulations, and competition in the area.

I personally like it when there is a IRS lien scares the uninformed away and much less competition .. it also keeps those that MUST get a HML to pay off the cash they invested as quick as possible..