Same strategy -> Let the data drive decisions (include updated tax, interest rate, rent numbers, etc.)2. 

He also gets to enjoy California's low property taxes and high appreciation which has worked well for him. 

The tenant claims there is mold in the house per some report from the City.

Well what I was thinking that I could do was look for a tax deed property in a decent area (closer to one of the colleges in town) and use my business credit to acquire the property and to renovate.

I know some landlords who can make the separation and claim the tenants merely think they work for the 'owner' but I don't like to lie.

I don't know about Ohio but my property tax rates are 2.77%.

You can successfully and fairly easily manage an STR out of state, however for your first one I think it can be helpful for it to be within driving distance (3 hours or less) and it will simplify filing / paying for taxes and tax preparation.

. #1 - you have to explain what it is like  : "Hey i see this is your vacation property or rental property, how would you like to reduce your capital gains tax? 

I am the agent and used my commission as a closing costs credit instead of paying taxes on my commission I invested it.

The mentor/coaching space can be confusing for sure - and was especially hard for us to know what to look for when we started (and we paid some "dumb tax" getting in the wrong group at first).