Are more risk averse investors just avoiding these areas, even if they have good STR potential?

Yes, I own the property and can legally sell it, but the potential for competing claims of ownership is higher than usual. 

Jon Bock, CPA/PFS Thanks for the note Jon.Great questions and to the point.No particular deal, just trying to assess all my options, so I have a good grasp on my financial resources ahead of finding the first deal.Why real estate? 

I can help with cold calling.Cost per lead is usually going to be in the $20-$50 dollar range (assuming a VA cold caller with native English) and a cost of about $0.20 per record for them to call potential motivated sellers (high equity, certain age, etc).CAC is going to depend on your conversion skills, but within 3-6 months can be $1500 to $5K depending on how many leads it takes you to close them.

Have a way for a potential property management client to contact you. 

The tricky one is the rent to income ratio and how it is related to the median family income.I did note that at lease one other poster was advised to always use the low barrier screening criteria to avoid potential lawsuits. 

@Michael DumlerPreviously, I was looking at investing in SFH in my town or potentially SF apartments, but my dad dissuaded me.

@Kasim RashidBased on what you provided it seems like you bought the foreclosure on the firstNow what is not on that report is any water sewer or utility liens or potential code violations which could attach to the propertyI recommend before bidding at foreclosure to do your due diligence and home work

This entails locating appropriate properties, assessing them, putting in an offer, carrying out due diligence, closing on the property, relocating and leasing it out, and maintaining the property.Start by looking for duplexes or multi-unit buildings in your desired neighborhood that are occupied by renters.

“If an individual is part of a high-deductible health care plan, making a contribution into their health savings account would also reduce taxable income.”Donation to a Qualified Charitable OrganizationCharitably inclined individuals might consider donating cash or appreciated property to a qualified charitable organization, potentially providing a tax deduction to help offset that tax year’s taxable income.