Meeting them to sign the lease is my only chance to really go over what important to us.

From there, it depends on who you want to meet.  

We are actively investing in the Champaign market, selling an inheritance property in Central Florida and trying to figure out what to do with our long term lease in Phoenix, AZ that is currently costing us a few $100 vs. cash flowing :) Excited to meet others, would love to know of any in person meet ups in southern/central Illinois. happy to be here!

If it meets your expectations, then consider how to turn it into a business.

These strategies can also apply to foreign STRs if you meet material participation and substantial services criteria.

You have come to the right place to begin your investing journey.Have you looked into attending local meetings and joining Facebook groups?

We have a meet up each month

.- However, you mentioned you don't currently have the budget for an STR that meets your criteria.

I recently attended a meeting with the Council or Elite Property Managers at the Pikes Peak Association of Realtors in Colorado Springs and was shocked at how many property managers were stating vacancies of over 5% - 7%! 

They can get re-assessed again at sale if it meets certain requirements.