AirBNB is still a good place to find MTR tenants as well.

Where can I find when the STR application opens up?

The combination of families looking for more space, good schools, and a quieter lifestyle has been a big driver of demand.For my investments, I’ve noticed:High tenant quality: Families or professionals relocating to suburbs like Naperville and Wheaton tend to stay longer, which helps with stability.Increased competition: It’s definitely tougher to find good deals, especially in top-tier school districts.

I'm looking for advice on whether I should purchase my father-in-law's 6 unit apartment in Burien, WA (10 minutes south of Seattle) as my first deal, or perhaps help find him a seller that would pay more than I could and is a couple years ahead of me in REI. 

To get a deal, you have to find a problem to solve.

Then the tenant will rant a bunch of nonsense, have no evidence to back up his stories, and the judge will find in your favor based on the evidence provided by you.For future tenants, I highly recommend you read a book like mine or "Every Landlord's Legal Guide" by NOLO.

USDA offers 100% financing if you can find a property that qualifies for USDA.

I'd like to invest more in that area, but it's much more expensive and harder to find deals.  

Search for properties in your area as if you wanted to find a place like yours.

Find someone in the neighborhood of your building to help you out.