I talked to a reputable mortgage broker in my area and he gave me several leads on how to get financing for my "first" deal.

Ive also explored the option to write in an LLC as the buyer and then sell the LLC to the next buyer (not done this yet though).

I'm sure that the big reputable hotels will be able to successfully implement the pages and pages of guidelines but, as a traveler, I would never be able to bring myself to trust that a hotel had successfully implemented everything that needs to happen to keep me safe.

However, I would explore the market by flying/driving out and meeting your realtor and property management before you even think about buying.

One other type of financing to explore is BRRRR lenders but there may be an expectation that you rent it after rehab. 

As I sit and wait the corporate job situation, I want to get into the game and have explored a SDIRA to invest in my partnerships.

Not really concerned with location as long as the numbers work and the company is reputable. 

We want to explore rent to own option with tenants so we figured we would be communicating with them.

If you want to use other people's $ you need to have a lot of knowledge and have very good reputation. 

Then as your experience and reputation grows, moving into an REI when you are able, will demonstrate your abilities and show everyone you can be taken seriously.Good luck!