@Kitty Walker- As an investor, I've refinanced multiple Padsplits and co-living properties (where we go direct to tenant without Padsplit), and I generally agree with your last statement, with some caveats:- if the renovation is done well, the appraiser may not even say anything that would indicate it is an "abnormal" SFR (has happened multiple times with me)-the investor may be wise not to make the house crazy- just leave a nice open living room, put double doors on the dining room so it can function as a bedroom now but be easy to convert later, etc.  

Buildium is a LTR platform that what looks to be recently added some STR functionality. 

@Scott Meech Furnished Finder is the largest and most well known MTR site.

again this is my perspective I was the largest HML in Jackson market from 03 to 08  and lived there for one year cleaning up all the foreclosures I had from failed landlords in 09  I lived out at Reunion which is great neighborhood but you not allowed to rent homes there..

We did however, put in brand new HVAC to both units, new flooring in the bigger unit and then furnished them nicely to rent MTR. n This location is 2 miles from one of the largest hospitals in Knoxville and only 3 miles to the college and downtown.

Third, is that inspectors will often give information about how a home functions and helpful tips for maintenance.

The 2 cabins can also function as STRs near GSMNP. 

Since you're based in Frisco and looking for meetups in Collin County, Id recommend checking out Texas REIAs... the largest real estate investment association in Texas.

The tax benefits have been the largest source for cash income so far; in future years this will likely be lower because much of our tax savings has been due to one-time costs related to purchasing and furnishing a new property.

Once you have a shortlist, sign up for an account with each one and test them extensively to see how they function.