You do have to get a good cleaner and handy person which can take some time.I agree with HOA's.

Personally, I would prefer to use the HELOC approach.

I personally know both @Jaclyn Cano and @Wale Lawal and can confidently say both are great and VERY Investor friendly!

But I find from personal experience and from my buyers' Airbnb experience that it's a bit of a hassle trying to get guests to rebook at the new listing.I don't know how strict Joshue Tree is at enforcement, but in Denver and Colorado Springs here, you could probably get away with an STR listing for three months without the license.

I can see how an application fee per person can be a deterrent for applicants in my case whether for more upscale rentals people may see it as more normal.I am starting off as a non-refundable fee and measure the resistance, then adjust if needed.

I've been informed that completing the course alone may not be sufficient to pass the exam, so I’m seeking advice on how to prepare effectively once I complete it.Currently, my only other resources include a YouTube video, five practice exams, and a textbook.If you have any additional suggestions—whether online or in-person, paid or free—that could help me effectively prepare for the exam, I would greatly appreciate them.

Looking forward to meeting you all virtually sometime, or in person on a visit to PT. 

Still can be very beneficial for a new investor but personally I think not as good as a service as they had with their exclusive listings where they had inspections already done, rent rolls available, and you can complete the entire offer/acceptance via their platform rather than being handed off to an agent. 

Yes, as I'm doing more research, I'm finding that I would prefer to invest in markets that I know personally, so as not to rely on external variables completely.

Just a good person too if you want to bounce any ideas off her.