The type of home you can get in White House is a different universe compared to what you'll get in Nashville if you're trying to be 5 mins from the urban core.Make a list of what is MOST important to you and that will guide your decision making.

Understand the fees involved and calculate the total cost for an entire year of management so you can compare the different managers.

The cost associated with insurance for not having 20% is peanuts compared to what you potentially can do leveraging your down payment. 

This is a beautiful house - rehabbed/looking new and fresh - walking distance to the water etc, yet low gross yield  compared to Byrd (???)

This creates a market for both short-term and long-term rental properties.Affordable housing, Compared to cities like New York, Washington D.C., or Boston, Philadelphia offers relatively affordable rent, or section 8 tenants, especially those who are relocating from more expensive areas. 

If it's a long-term play, the potential savings on PMI with a conventional loan could be significant.Have you compared rates for both options?

I'd like to know your thoughts/advice on how to compare long-term and mid-term rentals.

Understand the fees involved and calculate the total cost for an entire year of management so you can compare the different managers.

Obviously I want to keep my costs low but still want to spring for amenities that would give me a competitive edge compared to other rentals.

Selling and exploring a 1031 exchange could make sense if you can find a deal with stronger cash flow or faster equity growth, but the key is comparing your current return to what your skill and experience could generate in another investment.Here to help,Jorge