We stayed at a STR last summer with many homeless around it but it is also near some upscale hotels.  

(This is the tip of the iceberg; I would prefer to chat with members than fire lengthy messages back and forth.)1.

But thanks for the tip.

I see 3-5 as a fad.Fractional ownership - way to much overhead for these to be profitable. think "timeshare".STR in non traditional markets - running a STR is a business and real estate, boils down to location location location - who would want to go to a conference and stay in a STR vs. the hotel where the conference is at, most businesses pay for this I do not see why.Mixed use with green - this has been going on for years- it will continue but it is also more expensive to build - which means higher costs to use.Not trying to be debbie downer, I have seen these attempted to be done in the past and they really have not been successful.I do really like the BTR model though as I continue to see that as a very good option in the future. 

Make sure you talk to a Banker or Loan officer that is well versed in both SE (Self Employed) income and also Non/QM programs.One tip I will give you as a Banker is open up a "Business Checking account" and for the next 12 months pay "Everything" out of that account. 

Any tips on finding reliable professionals in my area?

If you have any tips, resources, or advice for someone just starting out, I’d greatly appreciate your insights.Some specific things I’m working on right now:* Building a strong buyers list.* Identifying motivated sellers and honing my outreach.* Learning the ins and outs of structuring win-win deals.I’m open to partnering, collaborating, or just grabbing coffee to exchange ideas.

I’m happy to share my own tips and experiences as well.

My number 1 tip would be to go off market and find owner that wants to sell at a discount / prefers speed and convenience. 

At tip to help achieve this: You will at somepoint, if you haven't already, be directed to propstream or propwire or the like to find motivated sellers.