I'm a full time agent and investor in the area that works a ton with VA buyers and i LOVE helping people house hack, it is definitely my favorite strategy and my passion helping people do it.

I love finding deals and helping people pursue their goals. 

Wonder whether people have seen similar trends.I also wonder how people feel about Ashford WA, vs Packwood, WA.

Second, people with criminal records are in need of housing and have made great tenants for us.

Ask them if they'd mind sharing their experience with you.. if they'd recommend the area or not, and lastly if they could maybe send you a P/L sheet to see their income, expenses etc.You might run into some hosts that aren't responsive or any help, but it just takes a few people to share insight to get a good idea of the market you're dealing with.

Quote from @Josh Lansberry: You will hear a lot of people bad-mouth him, but Dave Ramsey can teach you how to get financially savvy real quick.

I've found deals in local online groups on Facebook, simply asking people for what I want. 

I know some people do this but proceed with caution.

Do most people get the property under contract in a single-member LLC and then assign the contract to the syndication LLC during the DD period? 

That's some people's niche and it works for them.