Hey @Jake Andronico,This is some interesting stats, and although I have no data or charts to back it up, ill give my two cents on the topic.

I’m looking for more appreciation than cash flow, although having both would be nice.  

I'd list it at the median, but it all depends on location. 

One thing I'd keep in mind with mid-term rentals is I expect the mid-term rental market to get highly saturated at some point just like the STR market has.

The agent told me that Tower Hill (the insurance company) can’t adjust the occupancy status and that I’d have to rewrite a new policy for occupancy.

A few thoughts:1) I echo @Simon Ashbaugh recommendations. 2) I'd recommend talking with investment focused real estate agents and finding one that understands the area your interested in.  3) Get a investment analysis spreadsheet or use the Bigger Pockets Calculators to run numbers on as many properties as you can in your area (try to run calculations on 3-5 buildings per week) to figure out what's a good deal.

I wish I'd been able to read it. 

If you’ve got a spot for me on your team, or time for me on your calendar, I’d love to video call or meet up.

I'd like to both appreciate and cashflow, and by going with a huge down payment, I think I can do it, even in Southern California.BTW, I am a newbie, kind of fell *** backwards into my current situation, and would like to grow my inadvertant good fortune.

I’d love to learn more from you.