Originally posted by @Andrew Lastivka:Hello, I am a new STR investor and looking for an agent in Central, Ohio and Fort Lauderdale, FL, and surrounding Phoenix, AZ area who specializes in STR's that can assist in buying properties and/or rental arbitrage.

Also looking forward to meeting any local wholesalers or people living out the house hacking dream.Thank you to @Scott Trench for leaving a great how-to on introductions!

Trustco Union Bank, specializes in noo HELOC.

Recently, I became a licensed agent specializing in short-term rentals and multifamilies, particularly in vacation markets and Worcester County.I joined BiggerPockets to share insights, learn from others, and connect with investors who want to scale their portfolios.For those who are active on this platform:-What’s the best way to introduce myself and provide value here?

People line trees, water, walkouts, boulders.  

Too many rentals, too much deferred maintenance, no real budgets, not enough money in reserves.You can still get CapEx in condos....these are called "special assessments" .

The founder appears to have been involved in businesses outside of real estate: ‘My dream is a locally made grooming products business’ | People | nashvillepost.comSo it does not appear there is a lot of track record there, but those are questions I would ask.

I did get a “special “ rate of 6.25 lol.

Don't cut special deals to help a friend or act like a big shot.

Building relationships with wholesalers, agents, and investors who specialize in off-market properties will give you an edge.