We lived there less than 2 years, and the rest of time is rented out.

I was working as a lead carpentry for a remodeling in company in Seattle, but left in Oct. 2023 to help with my family's property and turn my side work full time, which is slowing down.

Hi, I've been a small-time landlord for 20 years.

Oftentimes, a direct line to the owner is the biggest challenge.I'd be prepared to make an offer on the spot BUT I'd also be prepared to take things 1 step at a time.

That said if you have the time learning what you don’t know will be priceless. 

I will be able to do my first purchase in Q4.My investment goals are to retire from my W2 in 6 years by the time I am 40, continue my location independence and split my time between the business and writing (it's hard to give up stories when you have worked with it since you were 19).

Of course there will always be a need for a buyer's broker for those that are not savy or have the time, but I still see a shift with less representation on the buy side. 

I go and stay at my STR a few times a year to check in on the property and make updates or repairs where it is needed.

when you do a 1031 exchange you are able to rid yourself of the property without paying capital gains at the time of sale.

In addition, this is unlikely to be worth the lawyers time to pursue in court.