The best way, if you're dead set on owning RE rentals, is to find a property in a good neighborhood that will attract GOOD tenants... from a wholesaler.

Make a short list of questions to ask.

Shortly after closing the deal the company I worked for changed my job and moved me abroad.

I know some who started their own gig in last three years but have been around for 30 and put a team around them with other experienced operating experience, thus I would invest with them 10/10 times than the person who graduated college five years ago and is already doing syndications.The next few years are gonna remind me of the scene from the big short when he is with the stripper and she is talking about her five homes.

here's a short answer. 

I used those concessions to build out the basement into a beautiful and modern short term rental.

Perhaps you can make slightly aggressive offers that would make a really good deal.In the short run, holding is easier and better. 

Interesting info, but trying to beat the millions in budget that AirBNB and VRBO spend to attract customers is really tough.

It depends on your strategy: are you looking to do a long-term rental or short-term?

I was going to replace with new verticals blinds but am now thinking a curtain rod would be cheaper or panel blinds would be more attractive.