I've got nothing to contribute for STR advice, but I'm curious what town you're looking to buy in.

My partner and I buy and rehab properties, then refi and hold long term (BRRRR).  

Ask them who is doing the most moving and shaking and connect with those people. 

We focus in 12 markets in Florida, including SW FLWe are a long time property provider for some of the bigger podcasters: Real Estate Guys Radio, Marco Santorelli (Norada), Kathy Fetke (RWN) Jason Hartman ( Empowerd Investor) GRE (Keith Weinhold), Whitecoat Investor Group, Jake & Gino and more We also work with American Homes for Rent, Invitation Homes, Crescent, Haven Realty (JP Morgan) to name a few on the institutional buying side. 

I am just starting to investigate buying my first investment property, and am considering buying out of my state (CA).

Deals are like good looking people.  

No one will care about you place as much as you, but they are also a go to place for some people who are looking for rentals.I would sell a place if there is frequent turnover and repairs or if your long term goals have changed.

Recently, I started locking down a triple dip strategy having investors buy the mobile homes for the spaces.1.

If you send snail mail, be sure to send certified so you have proof it arrived in human hands.Personally, it's baffling how so many people have poor communication skills when we have so many opportunities to communicate in today's world. 

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.