Have you taken the time to search AirBNB and VRBO in those specific areas to see how many STRs are operating?

How about a quick google map search or something along those lines. 

I do a lot of searching through the MLS and county records, and come across these fairly often, but am curious as to who/what they are.

I hate to be a pessimist but if you search on here most do not have good things to say about arbitrage.

An absolutely amazing forum that has an answer for any question you could ever ask... search the forum or ask. 

A quick google search will show the marketing techniques which is1.

I’ll admit the fear of failure and unknown holds me back regardless of goes many articles or reports I read or deals I look at.during this search hundreds and hundreds of ads come through for training/mentorship style groups.

You want an accountant that can help you strategize and who is responsive when you want to know the tax consequences of the decisions you are making throughout the year.Good luck in your search.

When looking for houses, do you leverage your network more than searching the open market?

After diligent searching there are ZERO duplexes for sale within an hours drive of my work place.