@Crystal Hawk - You have a couple different options.

Yes, definitely get a non-refundable deposit if allowable so that they don't just string you along while they weigh their options. 

FHA loans are a good option for duplexes, particularly if you have between $200k and $250k to spend.

Typically an option to renew, is just that - a renewal of the original lease, not an entirely new one. 

Finding an older house to rehab in those markets would be a better option in my opinion.  

Im sure this has been posted before plenty of times, but I just got back into real estate investing, and I am looking for a good website builder option like Carrot, or any other, that you guys can suggest. 

I would love to find a software to help automate the following tasks, there are lots of options, most at $40/month, would prefer cheaper but will probably pay this for the best software that can best handle:- creating a direct booking website from my Airbnb listing, I know some websites have an auto-builder which would be preferred- handling automated messaging- handling calendar and payments, including add-ons- sending agreements and collecting and returning depositsI am overwhelmed with the options and suffering analysis paralysis. 

I believe, aside from house hacking, a LTR as your first investment is a great option since it will teach you many different aspects but not deal with the headaches of a STR. 

There are some great options out there right now for cash out refi's.

What are the best financing options for this?