One thing I'm struggling with however is my ability to really understand the local markets in some of the areas I've been targeting.Among a couple areas, I think Watsessing Ave in Bloomfield has great transit, appropriately priced properties (cash flow opportunities), and there seems to be some serious development happening (new supermarket and luxury apts just finishing a short walk east of the Watsessing Ave station).I've driven many of the streets and seen a few properties in the area to get a feel.  

They are transitioning towards becoming a one stop shop.

Hi Adna, Happy to connect with you and chat about transitioning into REI full time.

The idea is to house hack in a rural area that I could develop down the road and transition from once the lot is fully built up.

You buy a primary home then transition it into a rental home either right away or as little as 12 months.You have DPA programs that cover the entire US and state specific DPA's (down payment assistance).

I use a Ring camera We currently have one installed in our STR but will transition to MTR in a few days.

I recently transitioned from self management and have had a decent experience so far. 

And if you're smart about where you're buying there's a lot of potential for those areas to quickly transition to B-/B in a handful of years.A lot is happening in Detroit where neighborhoods are seeing some serious revitalization. 

I see no rationale where they deserve an STR permit over a STRs that provided proof of paying transit occupancy tax and being good hosts (few complaints/issues, etc).  

A mixed use zone can be a good transition between residential and commercial.Impact - My wife used to live in a dorm with a high speed train going by every couple hours.