Do you know the markets you threw out really well? 

I think a community bank would be much more apt to put a deal together for you than a big national or regional bank like Huntington.

I will add that to your question of 10% or 20%, you need to ask yourself whether you need the cashflow or not. 10% down would leave some money with which to buy more properties.

It is a corner lot, so they actually have two separate driveways, which is great for privacy.

I took a picture of the hours for my own reference and get chastised by the employee for taking a photo, which is "not allowed at government facilities"....Enough of the rant,  fellow Illinoisans or else where any tips on how to work on government time while trying to hit closing deadlines. 

., so do you mean living in one state while a local PM manages a STR for you in the other state?

If you find a good manager, they will help you narrow in on the best communities to invest in, which properties make the best investment, rent rates, locating quality contractors, and more.

Besides lists from the tax assessor, how are you finding your deals?  

You could be eaten alive without knowing for months.

If you buy in a good market, appreciation will beat cash flow every time.