May I ask why you are specifically looking for smaller deals? 

Narrowing down the options will probably come down to comps and city/neighborhood specifics; things like permits.Any good suggestions for finding out how long permits are taking in certain areas?

Any advise would be great. 

I would be much more specific on pricing.

Let me know if you have specific questions and good luck in your search. 

I am not too certain on which specific strategies I would like to learn more about.

Hello Doug, I am not a real estate attorney nor is this legal advice.Unless someone's state has specific laws banning contract assignments you should be fine doing the following.  

Have you taken the time to search AirBNB and VRBO in those specific areas to see how many STRs are operating?

Specifically I think a lot about the smells that travel through the duct work between the units.

However, I’d love to hear insights from the community:1.Are there specific lenders or institutions you’d recommend that cater to international investors?