With that being said, do yourself a favor and do the research yourself on zoning, valuation and ACTUAL rent before talking to STR specialists who make a living on selling these =) Just my 2 cents...

My goal is to continue to acquire more cash flowing rentals to eventually leave my day job and just self manage the rental properties. 

You're first deal is never your "best deal", but is likely your "most important" deal if you continue to invest.

They are a great financin goption if your goal is to continue to scale. 

When I talk with them we talk about Florida and North Carolina.  

I have talked to a few lenders and have a better idea of what would work best for us in this situation.

Feel free to reach out if you would like to talk more in depth! 

They are certainly around and people do not necessarily talk about them as often.  

Have you had a chance to talk with your lender yet?

I would do what @Mike Grudzien says and talk to a knowledgeable attorney on this.