Most investors who buy these homes believe they are investing in a safer investment because it came from a turn key provider.

@Stephanie SelbyRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

Investors who take the time to define their ideal guest make smarter design and amenity investments—which can directly impact ROI by up to 53%.👉🏾 Which guest type best fits your STR?

However, should you have net rental income that is subject to net investment income tax, then REP status would be helpful to avoid NIIT.Just to be clear, if you have an STR and you materially participate in it, you aren't subject to NIIT. 

I would even suggest a Primary home or Vacation home to pull the cash out of versus trying to find a lender who will agree to be in 2nd lien position behind a investment property.

If instead you’re looking to invest in a newer townhouse or condo self managing it would be more manageable. 

It may take decades for the land banking strategy to produce results (if it produces results at all).In the same way that any investing strategy comes with its fair share of risk and uncertainty, these issues are compounded by the amount of time required for the land banking strategy to work.

Spend at least 2 hours per day researching online about your desired investment strategies.

You've shared so many gems and described a realistic depiction of purchasing an investment property. 

Investment Info:Single-family residence fix & flip investment.