I think real estate due to the amount of money you can make and how quickly you can make it attracts people who may not understand the idea of sustainability and being consistent in what you do. 

The property is located in a mid-size city with several attractions nearby.I understand that management fees can vary by location, but this property management company charges 20%.

This being my first go at this, I'm curious about that building the exit value/attractiveness? 

Are you attractive tenants that meet your screening criteria readily and keeping them as long as you budget for (vacancy rate)?

A rate cut in September is more symbolic and a signal to markets that the Fed is cautiously optimistic that they've tamed inflation than actual dovish Fed Policy. 

I’ve included a photo for reference of the kitchen which is the main attraction of the Mass home.Now I am looking to pursue REI long-term and am looking for tips on how those more experienced in the field have operationalized and scaled the property selection process.Our thinking for this first official investment is to either acquire a duplex/triplex and add our touch or acquire a single family where an ADU can be added.

Now, either I'm not posting in the right places of i.e Cragslist / BP etc or my ads aren't as well constructed as I think they would be to attract motivated sellers.

so just because you would not want to live in a specific town for various reasons does not mean they aren't attractive to others and good investment opportunities. 

I realize this comes with the STR business but if I'm going to continue to use VRBO I need to find away to attract the "good" guests and minimize the bad ones.

Albany is also an attractive option to New Yorkers because of the price-point and proximity to nearby colleges.All the best!