We've been very friendly and respectful to each other, and just don't want to ruin that kind of tenant-landlord relationship.

Plus, compared to other parts of Florida, the Panhandle is still relatively affordable, making it a great option for first-time investors or those looking to diversify their portfolio.Another huge perk is Florida’s no state income tax and landlord-friendly laws, which make it easier to manage and profit from rental properties.

While some agents have legitimate pocket listings (like selling between friends or family members), without a presence on major platforms, it's difficult to verify legitimacy.

After a year or two we intend to buy a larger property in the same area and partner with some friends on it but I do believe a boots on the ground person employed only by you is KEY to executing anything if you are not in the country yourself.

It might seem like a kindness to provide a printer to a traveling professional, but until they invent one that works on every device, every time; that doesn't need paper at two in the morning; and has cheap toner that refills itself, we will pass on that amenity.I am sure there are other examples for all 4 quadrants, but like @Allen Duan wrote the important thing is to look at amentities through the lens of the end user (with an eye towards the "competition").

All the friends I trust were out of town or married, and I was done living with strangers. 

In my area, I see a big need for a " military friendly" resource in the real estate market. 

All of this said, be sure to do your research on STR regulations first and find a STR friendly location.

After those sources are RE agents, mortgage brokers, friends and family.  

He's probably less of a nobody than either of us, at least in terms of social media, but his 250k followers and 50k worth of views on his videos probably doesn't even place him in the top 10 thousand users.