At the same time, I prefer to minimize liability, though I’m not a seasoned investor.Is this one of those calculated risks that investors eventually become comfortable with, or should I prioritize limiting liability from the outset?

Investors are almost always the biggest challenge for any group, new or seasoned, but especially newer investors.  

you know who he is right or maybe your to young :) Didn't go mate,In Toledo for a week in early July.I don't know Robert Plant and am disappointed that I don't know of him lol I grew up with my mum being a clean freak throughout my childhood so she would clean all day and listen to ABBA, Boney M, Bee Gee's, The 4 Seasons, Fleetwood Mac, Rolling Stones, Hot Chocolate, etc...Wish I was born earlier mate70s and 80s music is the by far the best IMO lol lead singer for Led Zeppelin  watch  DC honors U tube with Nancy Wilson singing Stairway to Heaven she nailed it. 

However, in Fayetteville, AR (where I moved), the "leasing season" is in the summer.

Good luck to all of us = )   Actually I'm a partner with 2 other seasoned note investors and we have our own Reg D equity fund that buys 1st position NPLs and RPLs with a preferred return and profit split to our investors.

No idea if it is accurate or if anything has changed since then, but it indicated the following:PROGRAM 1 Owner use up to 2 weeks 50% of Adjusted Gross Standard FF&E in high season & 2 weeks Revenues from the Unit and accessory in low season package required.

For you seasoned investors, does it make more sense to go to Home Depot and take advantage of their deals for appliances and such, or are there better alternatives for flooring, tiling, and appliances?

It's kind of the off season for rentals, so I would take that in mind also. 

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

Watch how you spend. you'll treat holiday season after October and your summer activity post April very differently.