I am almost overwhelmed when it comes to mapping out that first step and more importantly, the best strategy that fits my long term plan and current bandwidth.

The industry is long overdue for an overhaul.   

@Tiffani HollisFor a long-term rental, I’d avoid used dishwashers entirely—repair costs and reliability issues often outweigh the savings.

Quote from @Steve Englehart: I currently have two long term rentals and am looking into buying into the short term rental arena.  

Long term $ can range from 6's-10% range depending on all types of factors - LTV, location, unit count, debt coverage, borrower strength, full doc or lite doc programs, etc..

Price fair, don't get greedy, play the long game.

If that's the case, you'll want to start with a fix and flip (or hold) type of loan, complete your renovations, get it rented out and THEN refinance into a DSCR loan for a long term hold. 

I have some upcoming repairs needed that outweigh the Homestead Exemption and plan to make my primary home a long term rental in the next 7 years but the repairs can’t wait.  

Quote from @Ryan Pham: Is there a reliable way for to est income of a furnish / short term / airbnb  incomevs long time income ( I know this can be est looking at comparable posting in same area )I have a 3 bed / 1 bath small townhome ( hoa approved ) I like to try to fully furnish and do airbnb / fully furnish rentalThis unit is 1 mile from Banner Desert Medical Center ( traveling nurse ?

As far as the bedbug cost, I would consider how long you are willing to let the place sit empty.