Additionally, take some time to drive around your neighborhood and gather information on recently sold properties within a mile radius.

The midwest is not growing as fast as the south and southeast.

And in terms of the unit - we own 4 others in a 3 mile radius and are very familiar with comps.

I admire your steadfastness and perseverance during those volatile, uncertain times and continuing to have a great, positive attitude.In regard to REI investing currently - There are great real estate investment opportunities across different markets, especially in the Midwest and Southeast.

If you look at the one mile income radius and you see median household income at 45k, then take 30% of that or $13,500. 

The income amounts look to be long-term rental (which they are and came in 30% lower than what the STR average did) and 2. why did the appraiser look at homes 20 miles away to compare to when there are PLENTY of rentals in town...

Try to rehab a house 2,000 miles away with no money as a beginning investor.I basically had to run a pyramid scheme in order to finish this project.

Also interested in networking to learn more about my personal interest in STR's primarily in the Tampa, Bradenton, and Sarasota markets along with other southeast coastal and mountain markets. 

I personally like to buy in towns/neighborhoods in which no new builds are possible within 10 miles because all the land is developed.

Currently exploring investing in South-East Spain (Almeria) for STR.From what I read as US-resident, it's much more advantageous to invest via a Spanish SL (able to deduct costs in the tax + less transfer tax in the purchase).