Secondly, you'll definitely want to confirm with a tax strategist with experience in the STR space to confirm if the setup you describe will pass as an STR with the IRS. 

I live in California and I own three rentals free and clear.

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

This skill will come in handy when your clients are freaking out and stressed.

It's worth doing the call with them because that's free.

Feel free to reach out if it might help to go through how we were able to do that!

(cost of buy-down in dollars / monthly savings vs the free loan = # of months it would take to recoup the money spent). will you keep the LOAN at least that long?

Glad to share my experience in OH too if anyone is interested. 

The fact that you have already owned and sold a rental property gives you a great experience to start from.In terms of the best place to invest - that is whatever place meets your criteria, goals and investing style.Personally flips have not been working as well for me lately, but when we get the right BRRRR deal those are still working well.

I figured if I get a decent deal on a turnkey property that has at least 3 bed 2 bath I can prob rent for 2k a month give or take depending on the amenities and make decent cash flow. anyone else have any experience with renting single family rentals in this area?