Don’t copy their design make your own but look at styles that work, what can you do that makes you special, can you do a theme that will stand out? 

But I have a very low opinion of guru types (high priced, lots of upselling, big promises, selling a life style in their ads more than information, etc.) 

Perhaps thinking of a  modular style home to get it up and running quickly.

You can do a search for your local area to find photo prints of local landmarks and also by color, style, medium etc.

There is WAY to do this... a ... style... dance almost!

First, have you done any environmental due diligence? 

You can still find some great cottage style homes or even 2-4 units close to the beach that have great STR returns.One good thing about being out of state in IL is you can find a good Single family home, Condo, or Townhome and call it a Vacation home and only need 10% down. 

Personally I love reading that isn't a school-style textbook and when its about putting things into practice, I'm all for it!

@Adolphus Fletcher Like others have mentioned, gaining a non-recourse loan is a challenge unless in some cases where the loan is a commercial style loan of $5MM+ and the borrowing entity has strong income & assets to satisfy the lender's concern tied to the guarantee of the loan.

They pay on time, the place I'm sure is causing roaches and mice for other units due to their living style, with the garbage and hording etc.