We own STRs in southwest Michigan. 

Built in MI. 

The property management company I work with in Michigan wants to charge me $250 for a renewal of a lease.

Your down payment can go a long way in most states anywhere on the map between Texas and Michigan.

I'm in Michigan; interesting you mention October, do you think pre-election they will push the rates lower? 

In Michigan, leases that are at least 12 months in length, allow the landlord to charge the tenant for repairs.3) If you do a lease longer than 2 years, build in rent increases.4) Our standard lease is an "evergreen" lease that requires 60-day notice NOT to renew, has 5% rent increase on 12 months renewals, 10% for MTM renewals.

I don't want to be had by someone in Michigan

Really interesting question, as the MI cancellation rules are different for multi-unit versus SFR. 

Can't speak too much on the Michigan market but if you're able to acquire deals under your lender's parameters and timelines you should be golden.

In need of an appraiser for condo in Pontiac, Mi.