If you go this route you better find a way to set yourself apart.

I ended up having to pay for their tax preparer’s time to meet with me and make corrections.

Asking in the correct forum will get a better response.Read the RULES!

Don't depend on Aircover.Homeowners policy will not protect you if your renting as a STR.You need the correct STR policy to protect your property.

Yes, that is correct.

I want to go the buy-and-hold route, and I am interested in finding a duplex that will provide a steady cash flow, a high appreciation value and does not need renovations.

You can also try the travelling nurses route, a lot of them are looking for low cost housing when in town. 

Most are being encouraged to buy Class B-minus rentals and below, but no one corrects them about their mistake of using Class A assumptions on these rentals:When a newbie gets smacked with reality via their losses, they then can only suck it up until time improves their mistake or dump at a loss.So, my question is, why can't we all do better and grow our industry with integrity?

This is my first post so forgive me if this wasn't the correct forum to post this question. 

Seller financing can be a valuable tool when used correctly, but its effectiveness depends on how it's structured and implemented.