I have a few other options - feel free to shoot me a DM if you want more specific contact info, etc. 

i feel like the local FB groups will not allow me to advertise my STR there because they would label it as "soliciting".. any way to get around this so that it doesn't look like i'm soliciting? 

Looking to connect with any investors, realtors, property managers, contractors, wholesalers etc from the area :) Feel free to comment or DM!

I am still trying to figure out my buy box, but long term rentals feels like the right strategy for us.   

I feel like I’ve walked the street without ever having been in the state.

As for not feeling like it's the right time, I would urge you to focus more on the goals than your feelings. 

Quote from @Robert Jones: Anyone feeling super confident doing deals in the current political climate?

I’d love to hear more about your goals and how you’re planning to use your license to grow.Wishing you all the best on this journey—feel free to reach out if you ever want to connect or chat strategy! 

If you have any more questions, feel free to DM me.

That said, if you feel you want to go above and beyond, then could could try contacting some of these apartment complexes directly and confirm her story with them but if you can easily find another qualified applicant why would you take on this work and additional risk.