Save more money too you will need reserves even if you can get a low/no money down option.

Whenever I take my spouse to one of these 2000 SF houses, I can see money and potential, but he doesn't want me to buy.

Blaming Loopnet for an allegedly bad property manager is like blaming Zillow for an allegedly bad realtor...I'm sure if Loopnet was stupid enough to give ransom money to BBB, BBB would take down the bad reviews and un-filter any good reviews (which is the entire business model of BBB).

If you have the money find the top player for sub to in your area and partner up with them, just make sure you got a great attorney to help structure the partnership.

Its a great way to start investing and save more money to get your next house.

We do this, it and saves us a ton of time/money/stress, so we can offer cheaper rentals, everyone wins.       

You could then use that money to go buy other properties. 

May be in Texas it's a good way to make money.

I lend money privately and would never consider this as it is dependent on things out of my control (permits, neighbors, you being a good host, rental demand etc) I sell a ton of STR that are in actual resort communities and have great amenities and they are all  competing for the same guests, I can't imagine that there is a need/demand for this type of unit.

Do this in tandem with being disciplined in your spending habits so you can save up more money.