The losses just pass into future years that will eventually offset future gains.

However, these costs can often be added to your property's basis, which helps reduce capital gains tax when you sell the home.Once the property is officially a short-term rental, subsequent repairs and maintenance would likely qualify as deductible expenses. 

Have you read Traction? 

and am eager to connect with experienced investors to gain practical insights.What I’m Looking For:Advice on identifying cash-flowing properties and understanding market trends in Lynchburg or similar areas.Recommendations for a local real estate agent or property manager with experience working with investors.Insights on how to balance active and passive investing as I grow my portfolio.I’m grateful to be part of such an inspiring and knowledgeable community.

I would echo what others have said - 100% start locally because you need to gain an appreciation for what it means to be an investor, understand the lifecycle of a deal and be on the ground to observe what's going on with renovations etc.

I control the price I buy at (equity gain at the buy), I can force appreciation on my own terms, I get the monthly cashflow, I get direct tax benefits, appreciation and loan paydown that directly affects my net worth since I own the asset.

But it would give you time to save up for the 20% on a refinance in 2 years or give you the ability to use any equity gained to refinance in 2 years.

Quote from @Victor Lin: Hey all, I have been living in Seattle for a little over 2.5 years now and I like to think I know the North Seattle area pretty well and would like to finally begin my REI journey here.I am looking to connect with other new or experienced investors in the Seattle area to mutually learn off each other and ultimately just gain more knowledge.

@Sanjay Bhagat: the closest thing BP will offer is Passive Pockets.I have seen several groups try this, and none have gotten any real traction, likely, for a multitude of reasons.  

I am just unsure if we can avoid capital gains taxes if we do the seller financing route.