Here’s our OPINION for the Metro Detroit market (use as a template for your target area!)

Start with Reonomy or Costar to identify all the 100+ units in your target market (on and off market) and then see if you can get into direct contact with some owners.

And what are you targeting for your price range?

One of the larger ex-pat directed real estate investment communities here in Japan targets all-cash buyers. 

Once you've found your target market, start developing your teams (Investor focused agent, Investor friendly lender, Property manager & contractor).

I use the terms -  "corporate furnished rentals",  "short-term rentals",  and talk about my target clients-  Business travelers, traveling nurses, traveling healthcare workers.#6  Knowledge -  Know why STR is better for the landlord than traditional rentals.   

However, I would encourage you to Network work local real estate clubs in the PA/NJ area to help identify your target market and ideal investment for your first property.

Heck, I hand wash my dishes mostly at home anyway.I am targeting a February move-in.

For example, are there specific documents or information I should prepare, or would identifying a target property first be more beneficial?

Raising the  amount required to buy your target properties is not easy, and beyond the amount that must be raised without leverage it will be difficult for you to provide favorable return profile for your investors.