Just google the following: - special assessment - zombie condos - Florida condos (look for recent news)Since you are not living near the properties anyways, why not look in a landlord friendly state where the purchase prices are lower?

My experience with friends/some clients is get their numbers via whatever method you can and reach out via the phone.

I would advise finding an investor friendly realtor when you choose a market.

there was a follow up post where someone got a loan from them but for realistic rates  8% or so and few points.. under 6% private / hard money simply does not exist unless its a family friends type situation. that bank rates or lower right now for new construction or fix flip  

Quote from @John Brown: I have a friend with a property in a very desirable location in Texas that I believe would be great for STR.

I have no social sphere or contacts family or friends in Oregon (I don’t know anyone besides my fiancée).Goals: continue to have flexible schedule while enjoying what I do (selling real estate) and making good money.

I believe single family homes will appreciate the best, and when you are young you are ok with doing rent by the room to friends or family to assist with the costs.

Tyler Deveraux, Ryan Woolley, and their partners and sponsors they promote have gotten students and their families and friends into horrific situations with neglected properties and take no responsibility for it.

You have received some great recommendations and if you are yet to decide on an Investor friendly to work with, you can send me a DM and see if we are a good fit.I do provide free mentorship and a lot of free resources and connections to anyone I work with especially beginners like you. 

Consider me a friend in the charlotte market and let's grab coffee (there are many cute coffee shops here and I can tell you where to find the good texmex)