I have a good W2 income as well as STR income. 2023 is the first year I thought I could qualify for RE status as I am working as the property manager, handyman... (750+ hours) man I worked hard!

More info is needed but, depending on how much you paid for your current home, buying a a new home and renting your current one may not work too well if the rent doesn't generate cash flow or at least cover the mortgage payment. 

If you’re buying in a desirable neighborhood and have the capital to do fantastic design and furnishing, you will still do very well.

And one room was about 10’x12’ and we still got a dresser and a comfortable chair in that room as well.

We might as well have ΦΠΑ and evade it Greek-style.

You can hire someone to pull local leads for you and you can outsource the direct mail as well. 

In my market a nice 3/1 might rent for $1350 as well but with an extra bathroom the difference is pretty negligible.

In most cases buyers that are losing out their offers (especially if its above ask) are primarily not "presenting" their offers well to the counterparty (whether that's because they're not doing a good job themselves or their broker isn't is another convo). 

Disclosure: I am their real estate agent as well and the deal is good. 

Im super well versed in the insurance side of things but not the investment property process -- i would love to connect with anyone who needs help with insurance and can help me start out too :)