I would like Lawrence or areas that are starting to increase in value but not as high currently. 

And since you are licensed, you can potentially do some sales on the side to increase income and save up for investing.

Who is worth following? 

It costs roughly $100/mo but is well worth the expense.  

so would like to start building our portfolio in a State that has consistent appreciation with room for rents to increase going forward."

My motivation is to increase my financial literacy and diversify into real estate.I have rented all my life and seek to become a homeowner/ investor to help my family and make their lives easier.

STR seems to have better tax benefits (in the right market) but is it worth it at a distance ???

Tell him it's time to do a remod and as a business you hope to market the place at a substantial increase.

One has a 162k mortgage, $1250 tax,Insurance,%3.5 30 yr, worth at least 750,000 LTR rent $3200, #2- Los Angeles worth   $750k as well just did a remodel of 150 K, mortgage is 75,000 payment $700.tax,Ins, Mtr/str hybrid.

We have created work instructions for every step of the process so we can maintain consistency in how we evaluate properties, communicate with tenants, market our properties, handle rent increases, manage property turnover, etc.....