Especially if you're a first-time portfolio buyer, these online platforms can help you raise capital from multiple investors.Work with an experienced commercial real estate broker.

Think a bunch of local commercial real estate agents or residential agents who are in the industry talk about what is needed...  

When it slowly started to become heavily commercialized and ads ads ads, it's gone down hill. 

If you don't want to have roommates it's getting tough, for most of my investors who are looking for heavier cash flows I've been recommending doing furnished rentals (short or mid term), looking at higher cash flow commercial deals like NNN or other cash flow focused syndications/funds, or investing in a debt position if cash flow is the biggest goal. 

Those cities won't let commercial landlords buy dilapidated buildings, knock them down, and replace them with new, bigger, nicer buildings!

This list is just one of many data points that can help identify areas.This is a 500 ft view, you still have to drill down into neighborhoods, streets and specific houses that will work well as a STR or Vacation rental (not just an airbnb).I look for higher end vacation rental properties above and beyond what people call airbnb's.A room in someone's house can be an "airbnb" after all.I love the new Vrbo commercial with Nick Saban.

(don't think we have time or knowledge to pursue that) . alternatively the lender has asked us to work with a commercial lender.. we have not done any commercial loans so far, but basic research provides core diff is the 30 yrs vs shorter duration 10-15yrs in commercial + ARM (floating). 

Additionally, I am in the process of closing on a commercial property, which requires a $300K down payment by October 15.If I settle the tax bill, I won’t have sufficient funds for the property down payment. 

Any word on corporate/commercial development in the downtown area of Norwich?

Yes, there are contracts, there is written communication behind every agreement, but in my 14 yrs as a landlord, and 17 yrs working in commercial real estate, talking with people (tenants, brokers, contractors, etc) is always best.That being said, if you are serious about buying any property and you struggle with the likely tenant/landlord relationship, I would begin interviewing property management teams, to take the direct tenant relationships off your plate.