I came to know an Englishman whose business was the purchase of very old, very decrepit houses on rather large estates.

Then you use those on your personal taxes.

That sounds like a well-considered plan, and visiting in person is a great first step.

Don't take it personally. 

Most of the sites I've found seem to be more targeted towards investors, and not the person bringing the deal opportunity.

The seller can remove their ID, banking info, and anything else personal and you can login and add all your information in addition to changing the email.

I personally don't like STR's because they are more of a business than an investment(in my opinion).You didn't mention the amount of hours that you and your spouse work but I would have to assume it be between 1900 to 2200 hours assuming you work 48 weeks and between 40 to 50 hours a week.If you buy a STR and self-manage it, you are added 200-300 hours per year in additional work making your life more stressful and less time to do things that you enjoy.Best of luck. 

They are written off your personal residence.

Leander, TX - I am looking at areas near the metro station and the new development "northline" due to job growth in the Austin metro area, influx of large companies, and decent schools, population increase 10% annual since 2020.

Ok, so if you are close to a college and a large teaching hospital, then doing 30+ day stays makes sense.