The condo was used for several years as a short term rental.  

I would appreciate any advice or suggestions on how this figure might be reduced or if there are any terms that could potentially be negotiated.Thank you for any assistance.

Look at LPG...Jack Bosch.....I've never taken their course, but seem like good people and from what I remember not the typical guru trying to take $25,000-$50,000 from you to teach you how to do it.   

Get a “Second home” loan and later decide you want to list it as a short term rental.

And if so, do you know of a good mid term property manager here?

I'm particularly passionate about long term rental and fix and flip.Outside of real estate, I enjoy watching sports, I am an insurance broker.Excited to learn and connect with you all!

In state you could live in the property which would be easier to get a loan and most likely better terms, keyword "most likely."

Even if you were, why would someone take these terms? 

I typically fill my vacancies in the initial open house asking at the high end of market rent.  

My plan is to work on on-market deals and focus on building long-term relationships with agents to bring me pocket listings.