So to make STR work out of state for me that would require a property manager.

It's a lot more expensive these days but the numbers still work out. 

It has become more saturated as STR was shut off people switched to the MTR strategy so have LTR as a backup if it does not workout. 

@Frank Nguyen, depending on the exact area that you choose, this might work out for you.

You could also consider seller financing, where you work out a deal with the sellers to pay off the remaining mortgage balance while securing the deed.All these options would help you avoid the risks of not holding title to the properties while also giving you access to the equity you've built.

The math still does not work out to $8,340.

In the future if they do, let them know about the non-payment of this tenant and that you are reluctant to take another as a result.Serve notice at the home-leave the work out of it.

If things don't work out, protect your $!

We sure have and are now doing a deal for this investor where they keep 100% of the profits.Folks that do their best, will make mistakes (Honest mistakes for those that work with integrity).We have been thrown under the bus quite a few times on this forum like many others but I sleep peacefully because I know we don't steal, cheat or lie and always do our best for everyone.Many times things work out well and other times they don't.Such is real estate and such is life.I don't think one can be blamed for doing their best.Upwards and onwards and wishing you all the best

If that doesn't work out I would just say wait till you have the additional 5% down saved