I'd also like for them to be aware of costs like insurance and taxes, so that they have a better understanding, but I'm not sure that's really that important.

When you have a proven track record of performance, then you can play with other people's money. 

New realtors, new realty companies, new PMs aren't going to have those established relationships and *no* PMs give up the names of their people to anyone else because getting good people is difficult. 

I see people purchasing new STR's here and others dumping their properties or converting into LTR's. 

Someone who is getting the DOS called is doing things wrong.The guy on YouTube doesn't understand what he is doing.

Also, take time to understand Arizona landlord-tenant laws to stay compliant and protect your investment.

I understand I'd take a pay cut being an agent for the first few years, but in exchange, I'd be learning about the market and building a network as I move towards Commercial multifamily.

I warn people over and over and over to know what they are buying and to go personally see what they are buying. 

Once you have a clear vision and goals of what you're looking to do, you can connect with the right people who can help.

But consulting with the town would be good to try to understand what they're permitting process is like.