The biggest thing I have encountered in numerous inspections is chipped or flaking paint in pre-1978 homes that have children living in them.

New construction is also a solid option because everything’s brand new, and you’re less likely to run into issues with maintenance early on.As for research, I’d focus on the local economy and rental demand.

Those could be options you could use as well besides seller financing.

I wrote this not too long ago about why I think turnkeys are a great option for newer investors-https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/turnkeys-...Hopefully that adds some info in for your to consider and anyone else reading this. 

My go to for lowest hassles, taxes and  transaction costs are Lease Options or selling directly to the renters. 

Do plenty of research and find out what other mistakes have been made in your are and learn from them.Both are great options but maybe doing a simple pros/cons list for both STR and LTR.

We are renting them on Airbnb and on our site as wedding but yes Airbnb does not have that option yet.

You buy the right to collect the remaining amount left on the defaulted mortgage.Once you have the mortgage note you have a few options to move forward.

If you’re maxed on the first, maybe a heloc up to 90cltv is and option but again.

Sounds like seller financing or partnering with someone are your best options.