Based on what you have described I would not invest, and I don't know any investor that would consider investing.

Backstory: As some of you know based on previous post of mine I've found my first "possible" real estate deal. 

The posters opinion is based on their experience, my opinion is based on mine.  

I am also considering multiple rentals and it appears that I have found a pretty good property manager based on feedback I have. 

This of course is all based on who your market is. 

We have a minimum income requirement to qualify for this unit (4 times monthly rent); based on your email, it appears you meet that qualification.

I can only speak to the Texas market, where malls that focus on creating consumer experiences (coffee shops, kids play area, entertainment-based tenants) are still performing well even in this age of online shopping.  

They are based out of the Smokies, but will ship nation wide.

As an example, last year we saw markets with 9% rent growth, and some with -5% rent growth -- so there is a large variance and I expect that to continue based mostly on supply dynamics as Scott said.

While I agree that the purchase is an important part of the process, if you buy based on price and not on the STR aspect of the deal, it could fail.You might get the best damn deal on a property in an area that makes a terrible STR thus it isn't a deal at all.