I generally try to put my October through January lease starts on 18 month initial terms to better align with more favorable leasing periods when the units come back to market.

Short-term rentals of non-owner-occupied properties will also require a special use variance which is obtainable by starting with the completion of an application in the Zoning Department."

I'm looking at it long term and will not need the equity anytime soon.  

Yes, my banks require a 1.2 DSCR debt service coverage ratio, meaning they want to see rent 20% higher than the mortgage payment.

I'll be looking for long term rentals that don't need any major repairs initially. 

Quote from @Ben Trageser: If you live in your short-term rental (STR) property in a future year after claiming depreciation, depreciation recapture does not occur immediately.

I provide short term rental furnishing and renovation finish list that includes paint colors, light fixtures, cabinets etc.

The time has come for me to start investing in real estate and before doing so i'm looking to build a strong and dedicated team of partners: agents, lenders, contractors and property managers mainly in the Cleveland area (but also open to markets within a 2-3 hr drive away) that already possess an excellent track record in their line of work and that value long term collaboration.

If you're looking to get into STRs, you need @Avery Carl's book, Short Term Rental, Long Term Wealth, published by BP. 

I purchase my personal investments to maximize their equity and hold long term.