You came to the best possible place to grow your network and knowledge base before your first property.I'd recommend checking out local meetups, BP webinars, and BP books.

I am not aware of any efficient way to filter through properties other than looking at all of the properties in your desired location, and checking to see if it has a basement apartment.

I then check to see if there are any local laws that limit the number of STR rentals in the municipality.

@Dominique Guinnane - Comparing a permanent rate buy down (standard rate buydown) vs a temporary buydown are two different scenarios. 

will check out DSCR  

I’ve checked Honolulu and seen condos as low as 250k  ( studio/condotels) to 700k.

So, if the specific lender was called out on your contract that could nullify your mortgage contingency altogether because you aren't even applying for the loan you stated on the contract.So, check the contract and read it.

My main goal right now is to get positive cash flow along with standard property appreciation (~3% like rest of the US).ThanksJai

Before buying, do an analysis of the market that lets you in on its dynamics, link the type of property that matches your set goals and is in line with the risk you can take, survey the possible financial options open for borrowing money, and finally analyze the cash flow of this business before engaging professionals in managing this apartment complex.Conduct thorough checks on possible properties, covering in-person checks, money checks, checking leases, comparing market prices, checking rents, assessing the condition of the property, and looking over legal contracts.

I can check on her whereabouts faster with the CC than a GPS!