You do not need REPS to get tax benefits from STRs, and qualifying for REPS does not help you with STRs.

In my experience, the county offices have always been very helpful, whether it be auditor, building department, zoning, etc.  

Being in the Army will provide you with some unique benefits to help you get started.

Wow Travis, this was very helpful and appreciate the insight of what is to come! 

Texas has no requirement for an operating agreement, but I would like to have one as I hear the general consensus is that (if done right) will help with liability protection. 

I’ve also begun to assist groups with drafting their purchase agreements.I’m looking to connect with groups who need help with both acquisition and drafting. 

I could go this route, but since this is California, I'm wondering if it's better to get more personalized help closer to home.I'm also happy to consider non-Bay Area alternatives (with meetings done over Zoom) if anyone has a lawyer they particularly like.Thank you for any advice and recommendations!

If anyone has any advice on this process or obtaining loans for this type of investment that would be very helpful.

Tesla will help you set up and do the billing.

When we acquired out triplex we added quiet hours into the lease which has been helpful.