There is so much that goes into buying an STR, especially your first one.

Any recommendations? 

There are people there that can check on the operation for you.  

Quote from @Obed Calixte: There are a ton of free tenant applications online and through property management software companies such as turbotenant, rentspree, zillow etc.You will want your application to meet any state specific guidelines (if applicable). 

I would greatly appreciate it.Thanks,SG There are lenders out there either with low LTV or high fees  pick your poison

Is there any legal action one can take or is it just a lost cause?

There are more location considerations.

There's so many hoops you have to jump through and some of their filters, captchas, and etc. are crazy.Cozy is WAY easier to list an apartment on (with the exception of the media limitations).

There are always several good growth markets at any given time.

But there will be ZERO protection.