I thought the automation offered by VRBO and Airbnb (SEO, Listing and photos management, price management, calendar management, inquiries and in case of dispute, some support) was exactly why we were paying them, but you are right if it brings you additional revenue, then it makes sense.And yes on top of what we said above about the vrbo vs airbnb sweet spots I do see the same thing as you when you say: " My perception is that people using VRBO are middle aged people that don't mind spending money on a nice place. 

I am a strong supporter of cash flow style investing over the appreciation style models.

You never have to answer to them.Bad: They also offer very little support in general and don't have huge motivation to help you. :)  So you get minimal help on learning good negotiating and actually being good at following deadlines and understanding how to protect your client (yourself) in a transaction. 

You need to check with your FHA Lender.As far as the property goes I agree with Thomas S. the numbers do not support a good deal.  

The other investors I know all have over 100 units and I express with them literally every weekly that my goal is to own 1,000 units within the next 10 year (now 9 because I made this goal last  year) and they are 100% supportive and help me out all the time with any advice, contractors, financing, and deals because they see me every week down there and they know I'm serious because I take action.

Thanks for the motivation and support.

It seems most people are doing so to allow rental income to support DTI ratios.If I can income-qualify for purchasing a property without utilizing a FHA loan, is there any reason or need to do so?  

I'll let you know how it goes.Thank you for all your support! 

Re-rent @ $600-800/mo if the market will support it

So glad I stumbled upon Bigger Pockets and the lovely people here support this community!