We also live in a reasonably low cost of living area compared to the rest of the nation where the home prices we are looking at for rentals are between $200K and $250K. 

All original tenants were long term low rent tenants.

One with low cash, one with some owner financing and a little less price. 

With HML at least you in theory can vet the property and keep a low LTV to ensure you can be made whole.

Create the payment that’s very low in comparison to what your keeper would bring in rent.  

If you’re just going to do one or two flips a year keep your costs low.  

A a low-temp sensor be added for you to be called if the temp falls below 55º ?

With a low 4.75% rate but minimal cash flow ($50–$125/month), your equity could likely work harder elsewhere.

HelloOver saturated STR in Ohio markets have caused many STR to drastically lower costs to as low as  $100 for entire bedroom home.My are higher and I'm not competitive with the lower cost Abnbs.I also feel hotel industry are mass building new hotels to compete with str. 

There is an abnormally low amount of new construction occurring on the coast in comparison to the demand and the existing inventory can be quite dated, especially for those coming from areas like California.