I am now doing this and would like to know if you are still doing dispo's with investors. if so, please give me some what what you have learned over the years 

It is to hold the unit for that person and you can charge any amount you like.I'd suggest charging a non-refundable one month of rent and if they sign the lease for August 2025, the holding fee is applied toward the security deposit. 

I am betting that those with the biggest regrets are those that bought at the wrong time expecting COVID level occupancy was normal and those that didn't take the time to learn what it takes to run a successful STR.

You can work with investors, make great relationships, learn and earn $$ on the way.

Some counties in Virginia loves them because they have little employment so no big population increase = more burden on schools and the tax basis is very high because of the personal property inside of them so they pay a lot in taxesAs you mention need to be near a power source and I spent 5 years trying to get one approved in 30 acre parcel that the county wanted the site for something else - so they can be challengingTo get zoning approved

Is there a way to find a mentor who I can shadow and learn about the deal process?

Sites like NeighborhoodScout or even just attending local city planning meetings can provide insights into where the city is growing.Network with Local Investors: Building relationships with experienced investors in Austin can accelerate your learning curve.

If you are self-employed, there are specific loan programs designed for self-employed persons as opposed to conventional W-2 financing. 

I have been working with a platform management company for about a year now and want to expand my horizons and learn other sides of the industry.

(We live abroad so can't be in person to negotiate the process.)