I have been wondering this as well.So many insurance companies have substantially increased their rates or quit insuring in FL altogether.The increased Hurricane activity is just going to make this worse.My next STR was going to be a beach house, but I am rethinking that. 

I had to crush limiting beliefs—like thinking I needed to start small or that investing out of state was too risky.

I would also start the paperwork immediately.

Landmark and Cantey and Company have both been around a long time as well.

Hire a PM company so you don't have to deal with residents personally.

@Dayana Castellon, managing cleaners to consistently set up and clean the Airbnb worth a 5-start rating.

My target markets are NY and CT, but I’m definitely open to expanding my horizons.Since most friends and family members are hesitant about real estate investing, I'm on the lookout for a mentor who can guide me through this journey and potentially partner with me along the way.If you have any advice or know someone who might be willing to help me get started, please let me know!

I usually tell my clients to start getting preapproved about 4-6 months before you want to move in.

Since the property is vacant I haven’t been able to find a homeowners insurance company willing to insure it.

I didn't start with a ton of capital to work with either, so I was kind of in the same boat as you.