Mainly I’m trying to avoid “aged poorly design” glassblock walls, small bedrooms, older windows (wood/aluminum, single pane), aluminum patio covers, and to a lesser extent landscaping.

For every good matching comp at a high price theres 16 poor priced matching comps that the appraisers only focus on.

If you ask nicely and promise not to share, you can usually get good financial information on the properties that are currently operating as a STR.If you're just starting out looking, you may not be aware of just how many cabins out there are poor quality builds due to the lack of codes.

This outlook is reflected in the prices resulting in poor initial cash flow but historically great long term cash flow. 

Sub-to is an army of poor ignorant being lead by a handful of savvy opportunists.

By repositioning the property (like improving tenant quality or adding amenities), you can boost the NOI over time.

This was my first property, and while it's been a great learning experience, I made several mistakes along the way—ranging from choosing a realtor who was more focused on closing the deal than finding the right house, to having a poor inspection and overlooking issues hidden beneath the surface (literally).

I'm just suggesting you be well informed:I loved reading Robert Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad Poor Dad"... it was extremely informative and eye opening... albeit told in a bit of a crazy way.  

That's not exactly an up and coming area -- I'd research who built them - can likely find that by going to the SG County Recorded Docs site or by seeing who pulled the permits during const -- Wichita has been on a duplex building boom -- look at the tax value -- They probably have that or less in it on the build - I also doubt they were built to be quality long term -- things such as the trim/cabinets etc -- they all look like the cheapest stuff a guy could buy - if the cabinets aren't oak and there is MDF or pine trim and pre-hung doors with engineered wood jams I'd run.  2-3 yrs ago for $180k -205 or so you could buy duplexes in Maize, Kechi, Valley center all day to builders that were selling them off to investors - not worth that in that area.

Covering a significant portion of my mortgage has been a great reward.Solution: My four levels of vetting have helped me find quality room-renters over the last 18 months.I think you already have the answers to your situation.