The appraiser wouldn't even allow me to meet him which I had never had happen.  

It's usually quiet even though the overall neighborhood isn't great.

It may even be higher than 5% depending on the area. 

Even with those small pieces of glass, the cleaners need to take care to get any dust or lint left behind after wiping them down.I use various size dining placemats as covers for the glass which keeps them looking good and from damage.

Long-Term Rental Rules: Even though my properties are long-term rentals, are there any tax benefits I might be missing if I occasionally rent them short-term?

That is the reality of these properties and why they are rarely sustainable even if they appear to be cash flowing.- It costs me me less to turn over my 1500 SF units that rent for $3k/m then it does the same size section 8 unit because the property is cared for better and experiences less  wear and tear while fixed costs like cleaning and painting are easier to absorb. 

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

I don't even mind paying ridiculous interest rates as I understand this is a big ask.

OwnerRez – A comprehensive PMS (property management system) that handles bookings, guest communication, and even direct booking websites. 3.

Even better if you buy 2-4 units, live in one and rent the rest - then repeat every 12 months.