Those might make good rentals...but also there can be extra costs...see if they are in PIDs/PUDs or MUDs that add significant cost to the monthly payment...maybe $100-$200 extra a month.Also $2500 sounds high on rent to me for 1800sqft....I would think more like around $2000/month, but haven't looked in that area lately.I do like Forney....one issue is I don't think there are good demand drivers there. 

Are the STR's there a good investment?

However, many real estate investors use the inspection to determine if the property is a good investment.Here’s more information about these two steps:Home appraisal: Mortgage lenders require a home appraisal to ensure the sale price represents its current market value.

Not an expert on this but it appears YES this would be subject to UBIT and a good amount (70%).

You made good choices with the books you're reading!

If they were good comps and the market has not fallen, then those comps could be the basis of an appraisal appeal.  

In your situation, it sounds like the primary focus for you is more a quality of life play (reducing your commute time), and the STR may allow you to break even cash flow wise? 

Here's a link to their rural search tool - https://www.consumerfinance.go....As long as you have reasonably close comps and the CFPB says it's not rural you have a good chance of getting an appraiser to avoid checking the box for rural to appease DSCR lenders. 

All good suggestions--if you find this becomes a bigger issue, one thing we have done in the past is offer back the security deposit in full to get people out. 

Good luck with your investments