At this point I am reading books, saving money, and looking to make relationships in the investment community.

Or with any recommendations for professionals that have expertise in this area?

Is this a one time deal for you?  

I wouldn't be concerned with the legislation surrounding STR's at this time

I am not able to determine your purpose in posting this, since you did not also offer solutions for the seller or for the investor.The situation does not unfold when the homeowner receives a solicitation, as the article mentions...it begins when they are late paying their obligation to their lender.There is a timeline to a bank beginning foreclosure.

Glad to have you as a part of this awesome community, Aqualis! 

Hire a loan servicer - plenty of discussion and recommendation on BP on this topic and some recommendations for servicing companies 

I own a townhouse in Arbutus MD, and I have been house hacking since this month.

I imagine this isn't cheap but I don't see another way.

I am guessing only you would be signing the 18 month lease and this individual who is there to "help" won't be voluntarily offering their signature as a co-signer?