Is there any benefit to visiting DoH offices in person? 

If you are specifically targeting travel nurses, it will benefit greatly if the home is near a hospital. 

The mortgage would stay under the seller's name.The buyer could then rent out the unit, renovate, etc. to increase cash flow or make more money.But aside from a possible "due on clause" being called by the mortgage company, what's the benefit to the seller?

When in Due Diligence have a thorough inspection and get estimates for any work that is needed now and potentially in the next 3-5 years. don't forget about the tax benefits to doing the work upfront.

Another benefit is it is much easier to diversify into multiple markets, asset classes and operators.Just wanted to share an alternative - often active investing is the way to go, but it really depends on the person and it is important to know that there are passive ways to accomplish your financial goals.Good luck!

Also, I believe the tax benefits are horrible compared to the states, but I'm not too sure.

STRs also avoid automatic classification as passive if rented for seven days or fewer per tenant.To maximize tax benefits, maintain detailed logs of all hours worked on activities like tenant communication, cleaning, maintenance, and marketing.

Another benefit of joining such a program is that it is a great place to find a partner if you'll be investing out of state. 

To simplify the existing lease I thought about asking the tenant if they would be ok modifying the addendums to get rid of the resident benefit package and the building protection plan. 

The Midwest is going to benefit, no doubt.