It can be a very good market, but the why behind your choice may help us give you better advice on how to move forward.Before realtors and property managers, you really need to meet other investors so you are making a good move by trying to do that here, but it would be better if you could do it in person.

He was happy to allow me to rent out nightly because it actually helps keep his property in better shape than a long term renter (having a cleaner in there every turnover, short stay guests always let you know when something isn't working, etc) but didn't want to hassle with worrying about a percentage of income/management, etc.

Am I better off just waiting until the refinance is complete?

Just needed for some tips on saving and managing money better .  

Best bet is to try local and credit unions, possibly may have some programs for better rates.

Hostaway started off slow and never really got better.

Quote from @Samuel Coronado: Huntsville long term will get a better % ROI than Atlanta.

If you could shadow someone a little this would be better than any book.

Better is better, less is more.  

You'd be looking for HELOC rates better than 10-11% to fund the reno.