I would just say be ready for some ups and downs all the way until closing because there's a lot of moving pieces until you finally get clear to close. 

Or, at a minimum, the DSCR is ready to go pending a signed lease agreement.

Anyway, Lex is one of the markets close enough to me that I could potentially invest in when I'm ready.

They request draws as the contractor tells them he his ready. 

Too many investors get frustrated because their VA doesn't deliver a bunch of motivated sellers ready to convert.

A few terms that will make this owner financing work for me as the seller: 50% down on the purchase price (it is raw land fully entitled and permit ready to build) and taking the 1st deed position.

But that would allow you keep the appreciation if it's great, and buy a smaller property to boost cash flow.If you don't like the property (because of risk, potential future events, etc) then sell it and while you're getting ready to 1031 it, use the IRR calculation to compare cashflow locations with appreciation locations (the IRR factors in both).

Your consistently blown away by the ready answers to everything and, a bit intimidated, maybe feel almost stupid in comparison but right then they even know that and give relief that it's ok, it's why you got them, there here for you. 

Are there any books or articles that I can read on what next steps i need to take in being an STR property manager and also how to get the property rent ready? 

I can see how headaches and hassles can make selling a more appealing option, especially when the market conditions are right and your point about taxes and having a replacement property ready for a 1031 exchange is really valuable.