you will find tons of examples, poor signage, little security, worn paint, no one answers the phone, etc. start on google maps, street view, then start driving. you'll know it when you see it.Public Storage/Extra Space Storage it aint!

Pick them based of production there bio back group etc.

Also, be sure to consult a CPA about the timing of transitioning properties to an LLC to avoid potential complications with financing or taxes.Take time to compare multiple lenders and products that fit your strategy.

Two business days after that I get an email saying they received my info and will pass it along to the "product team" to process the request.Later that day I get another email asking me to verify my identity again. 

I really like this and I will follow it.One last comment, if I want to focus on finding deals, what are the most efficient/productive ways to find them?

It's a great starter book for the financial foundations of real estate investing: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/set-for-life-revise...I would also recommend Small and Mighty by Chad Carson: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/small-and-mighty-re...Real Estate Rookie: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/real-estate-rookieHouse Hacking: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-s...

I don't agree with your lender that you have to live in the property if you are using a conventional loan, but depends on what product they are giving you, maybe a work around for that.I would not purchase based solely on what income you can derive from STR.

Quote from @Saint Kyle: Here's an examplelooking for rehab funding on a triplex in youngstown, oharv $130k rehab $70kdo you know of a bank that's willing to loan on a product like this?

Mandating how a product/service is conveyed to the public NEVER works to lower cost of goods to public, EVER.   

Is there a combination of lending products and tactics you see that can make it possible to refinance after possibly 2 years and get out a large enough portion of funds to use towards the downpayment on another property?