I’m brainstorming ideas on how I can market myself to potential mentors in the STR game in order to gain experience.

Instead of following trends, tailor your space to the lifestyle of your target market.

Are they at market rent, or locked into below-market rates?

its a booming market! 

Today its nothing one sale maybe 4 in a year in a mid west market..

These will be markets where housing is affordable for both residents and owners.

However, purchasing the replacement property from an estate where your mother-in-law is the executor and other heirs are your wife's aunts and cousins raises potential related-party concerns under Section 1031(f).The IRS generally prohibits 1031 exchanges between related parties unless both the buyer and seller hold their respective properties for at least two years after the exchange.To stay compliant and avoid disqualification, ensure:The estate sells the property directly before any distributions to heirs.You hold the replacement property for at least two years.The transaction is conducted at fair market value with no prearranged agreements.Given the IRS scrutiny of related-party 1031 exchanges, consult a qualified CPA or 1031 exchange accommodator to structure the deal properly and avoid potential capital gains tax liabilities.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

He made a lot of money and the developer is the “hated” villain but my initial protege knew what the land was going to be used for.  

Purchase price: $35,000 Cash invested: $38,000 Another flip ready in the market. https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/4467-Sims-St-Columbus-GA-31907/76572533_zpid/

Personally, in this market, I would work on saving up and really doing my best to find a great opportunity and pull the trigger then.