For STRs, properties near the beach or downtown tend to perform well.Start Small and Smart: If this is your first property, focus on something manageable.

Managers will quit or worse.

Get an attorney and get these losers out then hire a property manager to properly vet any future tenants! 

I like to think I have done ok. for me finding properties is sales - managing real estate and growing your company requires problem solving. 

If you manage to get this off the ground and do some verified - meaning paperwork is in your name, or company's name, etc - projects that turn a profit, and you build some capital in a bank, you should be able to go right to that lender after a year or two and start a relationship no problem.  

Real estate agents, property managers, and contractors who specialize in your target market can save you time and money in the long run.

How much of a pain will it be to manage tenants?

We share best management practices, systems & tools, and our networks.

But I do not buy bottom barrel properties in bad locations (busy roads, crime, eye-sore views) instead I focus on making a property one that the average modern family will want. 

So now an employer has the affordability to afford the coach/teacher manager and the over-sized staffing.