We currently use Hospitable for 12 properties, and it's working fine, no major issues, and I know they've been expanding with new features.

I am currently purchasing a home that will work great as a Rent By the Room. 8 bed and 6 baths in the DFW area.

But I would remain open to long-term rental as an option as this seems like a more stable option in terms of income, again this may be my inexperience talking.However, I have always  been somewhat risk averse and investing in real estate is always a big venture, in my opinion/experience, in terms of capital.

Every where you turn there are STRs going up on the market fully furnished because they couldn't pay the mortgage and bills with the rental income. 

I currently use apartments.co for screening and rent collection.

I took the course last October... got swamped in my currently real estate business... went through a 90 day "challenge" course with RAL academy....

See what qualifications people are looking for and do what you have to in the meantime to produce income while you're studying. 

My name is Bryce Miller, and I currently live in the Phoenix valley.

@Paul De Luca PITI 11.4k, Gross Income (once I move out) 12.5k 

So he needs to be more ITM than  the 1.25:1 ratio.With that said, to answer the question-- figure out your debt or income.