The STR needs to be licensed with the city and can be rented out for a maximum of 180 days in STR format for a calendar year. 

I would recommend working with lenders that hold an NMLS or RE broker's license.

I’m an independent and licensed real estate broker in Tulum, and after analyzing the performance of numerous properties, I can confirm what Mike is saying.

Lastly, I make sure that we are double checking and doing proper due diligence - I walk the property and do an in-depth investor walkthrough for them, we do a home inspection, we have a licensed GC to walk and write up an itemized bid, etc.And to answer the last part of your question, one of the hottest markets is Columbus Ohio!

Now the law states housing providers can seek 100% back rent owed, courtesy of the US Federal Government and the tenant is hesitating because she has to verify if it's legal for her when she is receiving housing assistance currently.

Contact the real estate division for confirmation: https://idfpr.illinois.gov/dre.htmlIn illinois you must have a license.

A few notes from a licensed insurance agent:$500,000 liability coverage on renters insurance is not difficult or expensive to get. 

I am licensed in FL by division of hotels & restaurants and also a licensed RE broker so me holding funds in escrow is not an issue. 

I know there’s a limit of 4 unless you get a kennel license, so I’m also searching to find a place in which I can apply to obtain one.

Federal programs will require you to use GC/licensed folks for a lot of the work and they will get reimbursed by the institution that your loan is with; many GCs don't want to wait on the float time of requesting funds and getting them.Depending on the program and rehab/condition of the home, you may not be required to live in the home (think black mold remediation...bank isn't going to put you in a compromised position) however they may have min/max of when you need to move in.