STR markets are tough and change fast, best of luck!

I am guessing his hands are tied as Norada is simply the marketing company and I am guessing no operational control of Wagner.

I can say that with Phoenix, a multitude of opportunities can be in store for you if you invest in their market, network, or even just want to get familiar with it.What type of real estate are you into: fix & flips, buy & hold, multi-family, or something else?

I’m brainstorming ideas on how I can market myself to potential mentors in the STR game in order to gain experience.

Value: I am paying current market value. 

Having local family gave me a built-in support system, market familiarity, and the confidence to manage a property from a distance if needed.

Plenty of investors work the Atlanta market but the ROI is better in Huntsville and Atlanta is tenant friendly.

Is this similar in your market? 

Depends on your goals and the current market.

In the 2024 insurance market, CA is hard to place, so even though you could force them onto a single policy, it may be more economical to keep them separate.I'll send you a note with the carriers who can do this for you.