Hi everyone,My name is Sammy Marshall and while I live permanently in Illinois, my wife and I are looking at purchasing our first house for STR in Saint Augustine, FL.

I am not ready to list the property but know how important finding a good cleaning service is and do not live in the area and was wondering if anyone has referrals for reliable cleaners in this area ? 

Sellers motivation shouldn't factor in what you can afford, thats a bonus if they will negotiate, but your numbers have to make sense to you and work out for multiple exit strategies (str, ltr, sell etc)Running the purchase numbers is pretty straightforward, use almost any online mortgage calculator, make sure you know taxes and insurance (taxes will go up a bit if it is currently owner occupied and you don't plan to live in it) Once you know your mortgage amount then start looking at other STR's in the same area and same size/amenities and see what they are getting per night and how many nights a month they are rented to calculate what you MAY be able to get.

As one whom does mortgages for a living (and is a bit of an anal control freak with such things) I expected professional courtesy of being a little more transparent with the UW and Title items going on in the background.  

I currently live and rent in San Diego and would very much like to try to lockdown a property down here by end of year if possible.

Now you may think if I sold my home where would I live?

Quote from @Danny Schellinger: I currently live and work in Chicago, however have a STR property in Florida.

Most of the guidance focuses on individuals who reside in the US but not foreigners who invest in US properties and live outside.

HI my name is Filipe Lema , I am living in Westbrook, Maine. i am a new investor and looking to be connected with local investor.

Over the next few years me and my ex were living and fixing it up.