However, in Fayetteville, AR (where I moved), the "leasing season" is in the summer.

This has opened my eyes and helped me dodge a bullet.

Investors are almost always the biggest challenge for any group, new or seasoned, but especially newer investors.  

Even my seasoned and great landlords are going to have major issues with this.

At the same time, I prefer to minimize liability, though I’m not a seasoned investor.Is this one of those calculated risks that investors eventually become comfortable with, or should I prioritize limiting liability from the outset?

Cash out refinances have a longer seasoning period for most lenders as well! 

The overall inventory is higher due to the season.

You’ll be in a better selling season and you’ll have a better idea of where interest rates will be at the end of 2025.

Can you provide some links to threads where seasoned investors are negative about notes?

I also reached out and met many seasoned investors at meetups.