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

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.

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 am here to learn more about my own personal investments as well as seeking out learning opportunities from like-minded individuals.

If you and another person own a piece of real estate as tenants in common then you both own real estate. 

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

In your experience what are some ways I can understand the intent of the person who said they're interested in buying? 

Do you have a personal connection to either of those cities/markets?

If you've never done it and never looked at properties anywhere in person, how will you know what any of the numbers even mean? 

This could give you the cash you need for the purchase and also eliminate your personal guarantee for the loans.