The ARV was believed to be around $235k so my agent told me to try to stay all in around $176K.

As you delve deeper into the world of real estate, staying informed and adaptable will be key to achieving your financial goals.

I prefer to stay further from the coast and hopefully further from major storm/flooding events (potentially lower insurance costs).  

For me, it’s all about scaling, so multifamily properties are where my focus stays.

You can also search for local FB groups that specialize in longer term stays.

Or go the motor home route. ( wife does not care for the motor home route though) Or just do what we do now.. fly to where we want to fish stay in hotel and hire a guide !!!..

What I've realized is that a lot of these companies that do pay for housing stay in the larger apartment complexes because the companies pay for it.

That is in addition to clauses that require anyone that stays more than 7 nights in 12-months to apply (then it becomes our choice if they are treated as a temporary occupant or tenant) and prohibition of subleasing.

Years ago I spent many months working in Indianapolis and staying at the Canal Street apartments. 

You should reconsider looking for a property zoned for short term stays.