We recently relocated to Phoenix last summer and I'm starting to look for recommendations for local credit unions here in Phoenix which are trustworthy, low rates, personal touch, easy/simple to work with, etc. 

Hi Isaiah, I am based in Fort Lauderdale and can speak to the local market directly.  

Im not an STR SME - I would check with Mike Savage and Dan Rivers - theyre the local experts on STRs.

This deal came through Partner Driven's local network in Windsor, NC.

This was a local buyer.  

You can also do value add STR & Multi-Family Rentals by starting with distressed properties and using a bridge loan to acquire them with a lower down payment compared to a DSCR loan.Networking – Connect with local investors, wholesalers, and realtors in your target markets.

There's a local PM that I believe knows a lot of the ins and outs of this, @Drew Sygit

It looks good) I stumbled across someone locally who does it, but I'm sure you could find someone there if you or other out-of-town investors like the idea of paying a bit more for that level of security and obtain a remote monitoring source of the exterior of the properties.

You’ll likely need to look beyond the city limits (in areas that are still close enough to the city to benefit from its local economic tailwinds) if you want to find deals that pencil out.

I say start there, exhaust your local efforts before jumping toward "shiny things" and unknown markets, persons etc..