So my conclusion was that the condo-hotels are more so set up for personal use, with the ability to offset SOME of the costs by renting out the unit while you're not there.

I personally never explored them much.

Experiences like this are even more reasons why you do not want to work with Bank of America in any capacity, unless you strongly desire distractions, inefficiencies, headaches and heartache.  

You can properly operate the STR in your personal name to include the financing, proper insurance, etc. 

My personal opinion is owning your home outright is an amazing feeling and impressive feat.

Even if the property is not currently on the market, it will show you a lot of info that I personally find important.

Other times you see a person do a single post and ghost their own post.I am in two other forums that are dead or dying.  

Has anyone hired someone on payroll to oversee their personal portfolio?  

I personally prefer when investors have some skin in the game.

Quote from @David Tiefenthaler: Brandon is a great teacher and a good person, but that book teaches methods that are not good for investors and are more likely to get you in trouble.