With interest rates so high right now and property values up so much in recent years this would certainly help us when looking. 

There's a lot of research you could do on VRBO/AirBNB/AirDNA to compare similar properties in terms of rates and occupancy, but my experience is that Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are more popular because of the nearby amenities, nightlight, recreation, and other things to do. 

My mortgage interest rate is 3%.

We're looking at buying an STR to self-manage but with rates and prices where they are, the cash flow projections are dismal.

This can reduce occupancy and reduce the average nightly rate (as compared to a higher nightly rate and lower cleaning fee). 

( I know there are certain rules to the 1031 and having 3 separate sales may be a little challenging) Also,  I thought about just refinancing the 3 properties, but the rates are a little high to cashflow well.  

SquareSpace or WordPress make it easy for really anyone to stand up a website with free templates and a "drag and drop" feel. 

However if you are charging your Short term rate maybe you do. 

Unlike traditional real estate notes is something that is easy to do from afar since you do not get access to the interior anyways so there is nothing you can physically inspect.You are correct that you will get $500-$600 a month in payments but also recognize its taxed at ordinary rates... 

My sister is selling her house to me; however, we want to do a mortgage transfer since she currently has a 2.5% interest rate, but the bank will only pay what is owed on the current mortgage.