There are a ton that solely focus on those specific markets. ( they do meet-ups, etc. )WOW, AI?

We own a real estate, mortgage, and property management company solely focused on Short Term Rental Investments How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

LTRs with long term conventional financing and standard management aren't really cash flowing anywhere right now. sure, there are lower cost markets that look better on paper, but there are costs associated with those supposedly cheap markets as well - deferred maintenance, more challenging tenant base, higher cost turnovers as a percentage of the rent.2. i wouldn't pick a random market thousands of miles away based solely on statistics or numbers. 

Selling multiple properties in a 1031 exchange to consolidate funds for one investment property is allowed, but the property must initially be used solely for investment.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

They try to source deal flow, and raise the capital for the deals.

More than likely a blend of my money and other sources.So, I'm assuming "other sources" is equity, not debt.

Unless you have some sort of subject matter expertise or access to an unfair advantage (cheap labor, ways to source off market deals, etc.), index funds are likely to provide an equal or better return with a MUCH lower hassle factor and more liquidity.

The best way to navigate through all of these hurdles is to find an agent-friendly investor that is finding off-market deals solely for their clients

Are there any tips you might have on sourcing great deals, deal structure, and how to know whether LTR, MTR, or STR is the best route to take?

From what you wrote it sounds like the rental you own is your sole, pre-marital property.