Maintenance and potential repairs will also require a long-term financial plan and setting aside a contingency fund for such expenses.The steady cash flow, appreciation over time, and tax benefits can make a meaningful difference to your wealth in the long term, especially with the principal paydown on the mortgage.However, if managing the property from a distance feels too burdensome, or if you’d prefer the certainty and flexibility that comes with having less debt (especially given the high mortgage rates), selling and using the $100,000 in equity to reduce your loan for your next home may be the smarter move.

As always, read ALL the terms before you sit to close.

Quote from @Elam Fisher Jr: Anyone have experience with mid term rentals in Baltimore city?  

Cleveland, Ohio seems to be the place to be in terms of cap rates and distance from home.

My wife nothing but student loans and car debt.

Most of the legit investors I know won't buy those deals out of principle, regardless of terms. 

However, I notice that Personal Injury is not included and I'm thinking that may be important to have for a Short Term Rental.

More on DSCR loans: DSCR loans won't use your income to underwrite the loan. 

so you're recommending that my starting point should be finding a real estate agent, utilize theirbknowledge to learn about the process, and get referrals for good loan officers.

I'll be looking for long term rentals that don't need any major repairs initially.