Additionally, it drives people away from the forums. 

Of course they are going to have bad credit or they would be looking in a better area.Another thing you may want to consider to drive more applications is to not charge the application fee.

In Phoenix, where I’m based, or in markets like San Antonio, the best realtors do more than just list properties.. they go “driving for dollars” to find oppurtunity, leverage their local networks (probate attorneys, CPAs, divorce attorneys) and carefully analyze each property’s cash flow.

Airdna is a fantastic tool to analyze local supply, demand, and pricing trends for STRs.In my experience, unique features drive bookings and reviews.

And then the last hurdle is that driving miles between your home and your rental properties by default is considered to be like your "commute" to work, and your commute doesn't count as business miles. 

I'm struggling a little bit on deciding the best agreement to make sure I can get some cash flow, payback the HELOC, and not drive the new mortgage up too much with the Refi out of the HELOC.

If you haven't already, try going off market, driving around neighborhoods that would be of interest to you and finding ones that fall into your criteria (your agent should be able to help you as well).

You’ve got time, a clear goal, and the drive to make it happen.

Don't let tax implications drive investment decisions.

You'll need to really look at yourself and understand what you do well and enjoy, at the end of the day if you enjoy what you do you'll have more drive be successful everyday.