Hi Max, I can speak about the Columbus Ohio market (as this is the market I specialize in) but yes, there is strong competition here and there are obviously some cash buyers and they will always have a slight advantage.

*I know the markets really well even better than some local agents.

Being in the Austin market gives you a great advantage since it’s such a hotspot for investors.

I’m brainstorming ideas on how I can market myself to potential mentors in the STR game in order to gain experience.

Cincy and Dayton are great markets.

Pushing into other, close-by, markets is the best (and maybe only) way to make it work.

Start by analyzing cash flow and market demand for each property to decide which one to rent out.

You may want to start with the BP agent finder for those markets and then work with them to find good PMs and lenders.

Charge market rent. 

You tell me a market that was hit harder than Vegas?