I've been reading a ton here as well and am learning every day.

Im the dreamer (although well researched dreamer) and my husband is the risk-adverse.

If you want it to run well, you may be spending a lot of time at the property.

I'm a contractor based in Maryland and DC, so the renovation aspect is well within my expertise, having done numerous projects for other developers and general contractors.However, I'm facing a challenge when it comes to choosing the interior design elements, such as bathroom tiles, colors, sizes, fixtures, etc.

@Travis TimmonsI had the same reaction as you did, but I held off on posting since I don't yet invest in STRs (I'm all LTR so far, and looking into my first MTR).Buying an STR "to offset income" makes me nervous as well...

I would recommend that they invest in an inexpensive 'white noise' machine to help muffle the sound but that no property is completely sound proof and the upstairs tenants are well-aware of their concerns and are respectful.Always 'entertaining,' huh?

You get an operation running well and then you can be benevolent.  

If they are wrong, well, you can buy that deal from them (or their lender after they foreclose) a year or two or three from now for less than they paid...By the way, there is nothing wrong with buying a single family home or duplex--my first deal was a mobile home. 

Are you thinking of investing in Kansas City as well?

This project is $2.5M, with gross revenues well over 10%.