You're smart to focus on properties that appreciate because that is where the real money is in real estate IME. 

True, the banks DO have trillions of dollars lying around but they aren't lending it because they can make risk free money by buying treasuries from the Fed at lower interest rates.

Investment Info:Single-family residence hard money loan investment in Shawboro.

It is a bit secretive where the money goes that way.  

As you know, Winter is definitely your money maker, with summer being a not so close second.

For my first property, is it A: better to pay cash and see how it cash flows or always use loans and save money for down payment and other investments?

You should look into DSCR Loans - many investors like yourself typically move to this loan product once they max out with DTI/qualifying conventionally - a bit higher in rate than conventional mortgages - but no DTI ratio or tax returns/income verification makes a much easier qualification process and LLCs are 100% ok (even as sole owner) and actually often preferred.PS - published a 10-part article series here on BP last year on everything you'd want to know on these loan types - sharing links below, hope it can help!

So why would you pull your STR off the market for a year and make less money for a (now) tenant that you know nothing about...?

I actually use apartments.com and I only have 3 units.

There is a large piece that you didnt mention, the actual cost of the development.