Any thoughts on other alternatives or experience doing short term rentals even with HOA  restrictions? 

Artificial Turf: If you're open to alternatives, artificial turf might be a long-term solution.

What are the alternative choices if you don't pursue this?

These terms aren't unusual but may warrant negotiation or seeking alternative QIs who offer more balanced protections.

Alternatively, you could waive the commission in exchange for a small equity share in the deal, aligning yourself with investor success.Once due diligence is complete, network through real estate groups, your spouse’s contacts, or online platforms like BiggerPockets to find investors.

As a new investor, I simply don't have the budget for ListSource.com or the like, with prices between $0.14 and $0.18 per lead.

I have heard mention of some investors contacting local title companies and having them...

These platforms, like DocuSign, streamline the process but can be costly if you exceed the monthly limits.However, alternatives exist.

Deeper Dive into Rental Demand:Here are a few alternative ways to gauge rental demand:Local Property Managers: Reach out to property managers in the area for insights on vacancy rates, tenant demand, and how long it typically takes to rent similar properties.Vacancy Rates: Research the average vacancy rates in that zipcode through local real estate reports or rental listing platforms like Zumper or Rentometer.Rent Growth Trends: Check whether rents have been rising, stagnating, or falling in that market over the past few years.

Second, leave alternating lights on at night. 

So, I've been on the hunt for a new management software for someone with less than 10 doors.I've tried several different alternatives: Azibo, Innago, TenantCloud, Baselane, Hemlane, etc. and none of them come close to Stessa imo.