@Joshua Bailey, there are many valid viewpoints on this and I don't want to try to give any exhaustive opinion.

If you worry about trying to figure out the best option right now, you will more than likely spin in circles trying to decide if can be an STR and if it can be an STR, is that better than an LTR cash flow-wise and time-wise...and should you manage it...should you hire it out.

I'm sure some have timed things well but it's an exhausting exercise.

I want to exhaust all of my options so coming here for ideas?

I want to exhaust all of my options so coming here for ideas?

Have you exhausted all options locally?

Plus, the potential tenant will appreciate and pay more for a new home rather than an older home.

It's not so hard to manage an LTR from close by but if you're thinking of being more than an hour away, you might also need to factor in PM costs which might take away from your potential cash flow. 

In my area the zoning board is the final approver, they are appointed to their position and have authority to make the decisions and to be a bit more impartial than an elected official.

There are many avenues to exhaust including here, your local REIA and your state multi housing association prior to engaging a paid coach.