I’m open to exploring those locations since they aren’t too far of a drive.I’m leaning towards a SF property because I have $10,000 to put down, want to stay within my budget, and being new to this, I’d like to start small.

We have a solid system in Quickbooks and want to stay with that for financials.

I'd also recommend staying away from townhouses if you can but understand in some markets they are more common than others.

Last short term rental we put on the market was booked for a 30 day stay first day on the market.

I plan to stay overnight for a weekend trip in the next week or so. 

STAY away from them at all cost.

After talking with an operator I felt he was a good choice for a tenant and he mad a great offer above market for the apartment so we agreed.In the past I would usually rent my own units and to stay competitive I would keep an eye on the rentals in the area and try to be one step above if I could....This time that was a little tougher as the neighborhood hasn't gotten very trendy. 

It's a big enough company to recognize it's in their best interest to stay on the right side of the law.

Short term rentals are legal when the host is living in the same apartment as the guests and there are no more than 2 guests staying with the host."

Meet other investors in your area and stay in touch with them; you can ask them questions that might prevent problems.Best to you!