Thanks for the replying @Shiloh Lundahl, here’s what I’m looking for: good areas to invest, good resources to find properties, general information about the buying process, any realtors and other locals that can help, and expected returns in the area for STR.

For it’s part, Fannie Mae historically has focused more on purchasing mortgages from larger financial institutions, while Freddie Mac was originally designed to support smaller/regional/thrift institutions.

I think BP is a great resource.

Here is a source.https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/can-spam-act...

One thing I will say, and do with it what you will, if you are digging out of a bad financial position I'd suggest RE is not for you now. 

-------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

I’ve heard from many (non-experts) that I’d need to stay for at least 5-7 years to avoid taking a significant financial hit, but that feels like a waking nightmare given how much this issue affects me.Financially, renting it out isn’t an easy solution either.

The exam not only deepened my understanding of the intricate details but also helped me see the big picture of how our financial system works.

NMLS call center said they have no problem with it but it strikes me as odd that the MU4 filing requires you to disclose other 'financial related activity'. 

An empty condo can be a financial drain with HOA fees, utilities, and mortgage payments stacking up.