Sometimes they find a renter that will sign a lease for a high amount only for the renter to default leaving the owner eating the vacancy. 

I never heard back, but all 7 clients apart from the “whale” client re-signed with me.

Did they sign a lease or are they still considered STR?

The only place I see more cheating is in the recruiting of SEC football players (SEC fan here).

Here’s some perspective:1% Rule: Meeting the 1% rule is a good sign, especially with many markets struggling to hit this benchmark.Cash-on-Cash (COC) Return: 8.73% is decent, especially with today’s higher interest rates.

Some may have you sign something that say you don't intend to live there ever.  

Also, be careful with any contractor recommending or suggesting you pull an owner-builder permit as this is usually a sign they are unlicensed or unable to pull their own permits.

Is there a way to create an interest list where you could get people to sign up if they are interested in renting in a particular area? 

Go to Etsy and search for "rental property tracker," and you will find hundreds of nice spreadsheets to track 10-20 rentals, usually for under $10.Software has extremely helpful features like online payments, marketing syndication (click a button, and your property is advertised on multiple sites), electronic document review/signing, maintenance tracking, and owner reports.

Alongside my studies, I’ve had the privilege of competing as a Division 1 hockey player, which has taught me the value of discipline and strategy—qualities I’m excited to bring into my real estate journey.I’m looking to purchase my first investment property in the U.S. with a budget of $250,000 to $350,000 in cash.