Cleveland and Akron have some good opportunities. 

You have an exciting opportunity at your fingertips, some cash purchases could make sense in higher appreciation markets if you were looking for other options or to diversify.

Since you're looking to expand into Florida and other states, I'd recommend starting by narrowing down your focus:Market Research – Florida has great opportunities, but each state and city has different laws, taxes, and demand drivers.

Every investor has a different approach, but I personally buy my rentals the same way I buy my flips..at a deep discount using hard/private money, then refinance with a rate-and-term loan to secure a lowest interest rate.Ultimately, it comes down to your goals, risk tolerance, and ability to find value-add opportunities.

.- Once you have a commerical activity license you can finally get your rental licensehttps://www.phila.gov/services/permits-violations-licenses/g...All of the above will be done using the eClipse online portal systemIf your property is built before 1978:The system will kick back your application and you will not be able to get a rental license until you get a Lead Safe test.This is when you will hire a licensed 3rd party to come out and doing a lead test for you.

We are looking for our next STR opportunity and interested in a beach property that we can use from time to time. 

On that renovation, focus on value add opportunities to force equity or cash flow. 

But it might make sense to work with folks who can offer more focused guidance on filling the knowledge gap you have.If you shoot me a DM, I can also ask around for more of 1:1 coaching opportunities. 

Great points, ZharaBirmingham has relatively steady and diverse rental demand, and I’ve seen many investors I work with have success with C/B class buy-and-holds.Location is key—areas near UAB, major employers, and popular suburbs tend to have the strongest rental demand, while C/D class markets offer solid affordable housing and Section 8 opportunities.

We have such a unique opportunity here.