Current residence allowing me to live rent free.

To minimize taxes, consider the following strategies:1031 Exchange Before Dissolution – The corporation could complete a like-kind exchange, allowing investors to roll their ownership into individual properties while deferring capital gains tax.

The contract must include a provision that allows for a 22-day period to assign to a buyer.

I would first check if STRs are allowed in the areas you're considering.

If you are a multistate investor or investing across the state, ask for a clause that allows the freedom to work with agents outside of the region, since it is not possible for this agent to represent you properly in a different state.

Current tax law allows an individual to exclude $250,000 of that gain if they have lived in the home for at least two of the past five years, leaving them with a $1 million taxable gain.

This is a free reporting that most entities will need to file but there has been a TON of back and forth of if it should be allowed. 

I would love to meet any real players in the area who would love to pay it forward and help someone green like myself.

This is one of the most effective strategies for starting out because it allows new investors to build confidence, raise capital, and transition into long term deals.

Mainly because Smarter Contact allows folks to send follow up SMS in 24 hours and can SMS in multiple markets.