Such a complicated approach to a relatively easy situation.Definitely think that paying off the mortgage is pointless if he's just getting another.

It syndicates to all the same sites such as Zillow, Trulia, Homes.com and even Realtor.com. 

Honestly, you should have just stopped at Facebook.There’s nothing quite like receiving an unsolicited online message, random proof of funds, complicated background story, sketchy work locations, and a foreign accent to scream scam any more loudly.

Look into local neighborhoods, be aware of market trends, and choose a site that complements your idea.And finally, accept the learning curve.

VRBO, Airbnb, and best of all, direct sites!

I also found a website that scans/monitors other sites for legitimacy, and it flagged theirs as likely a scam; d) I know of a handful of investors in my area who didn't learn through a program like this, but through their own networks and education (through REI networking events, getting their RE license, property management, books, etc); e) I started exploring BP's free and affordable (i.e. books) resources, and it turns out, these have been immensely useful and educational and allow me to move at my own pace. 

That’s a Huge distinction.https://www.forbes.com/sites/adamandrzejewski/2021/10/26/why...Why So Secret?

I suspect I am in top 20 on BP site in terms of STR longevity (first 2 STRs were in 1999).  

Go to Etsy and search for "rental property tracker," and you will find hundreds of nice spreadsheets to track 10-20 rentals, usually for under $10.Software has extremely helpful features like online payments, marketing syndication (click a button, and your property is advertised on multiple sites), electronic document review/signing, maintenance tracking, and owner reports.

In site managment/maintanance/rehab.