They advertised them as turnkey and "guaranteed $65k in income every year."

Maybe you could contact a local STR management company and work for them for free to get some idea of what is to manage a STR.

I found myself attending in-person networking almost weekly prior to the pandemic, but we live in a different world, and the digital shift has made it harder.Currently looking for personal investment deals in the area, and also passionate about connecting other local investors with trusted service providers.

They require a lot more hands on care and this could put extra stress on you if you are not local.

Keep steady and stick with it, using plans like looking at local buzz and keeping an eye on road projects, to help grow home values.Thanks!

If you check their websites they may give local agents contact info.  

I'd also connect with someone local that is doing what you're considering and ask them about their success in the space and if they have any advice for you. 

Finding motivated home sellers without a realtor can be challenging, but two effective strategies you can use today are Facebook paid advertising and door-to-door sticky-note delivery.

@Darnell Fenderson It's good to see that you are local.

Rather than pay for a course I suggest identifying a wholesaler in your area that is advertising off-market homes for sale regularly (at least 5+ per month, more is better).