Second option is a home, almost half the price that will need a bit of work, that I am capable of doing myself over a few months.

It depends on your situation and your capabilities and opportunities as an investors of your own money or other's capital. 

That may soon change.Over the long haul, well-located real estate in the hands of a capable operator will perform quite well if it's conservatively financed. 

Be proactive and speak with players from the various channels.

If you hear of anyone capable, please pass them on.Eric

In a given area like Destin for example there may be (completely made up numbers here):15000 STR capable 1 br condos3000 non STR capable 1 br condos10000 STR 2 br condos / homes3000 non STR capable 2 br condos / homes7500 STR 3 br condos / homes5000 non STR capable 3 br condos / homes5000 STR 4 br homes3000 non STR capable 4 br homes3000 STR 5 br homes1000 non STR capable 5 br homes1500 STR 6 br+ homes1000 non STR capable 6 br+ homesI'd love to know the real numbers but you get the concept. 

I'd start networking locally and connect with top players that are implementing student rentals in their business.

That said, the 1041 should not be too difficult and I would expect the FL CPA you mentioned should be capable of preparing it.

The solution was to stop renting 😁 As the saying goes don't hate the player. hate the game

Most private lenders are only capable of doing business purpose loans (loans to business entities) and do not participate in "consumer loans."