We're very much focused on the South (GA, AL, NC, SC) and West (TX, CO, NV), but are always open to contrasting perspectives.Right now I'm enjoying Frank Gallinelli's excellent book, "What Every Real Estate Investor Needs to Know About Cash Flow."

That's actually an excellent idea that we didn't think about.

Most groups will give you rates/ballpark trying to secure your business. 2) Use the free Rentalizer tool on Airdna, rabbu, alltherooms, etc. and just underwrite your deals with a lower projected revenue amount. 3) MY FAVORITE - Use Pricelabs market dashboard, you can type in a specific location and then expand 50KM around that location. you can filter a ton of key data (hottub, lakefront, bedrooms, baths, # of reviews, revenue etc) into an excel sheet and then take averages, medians, etc.

Take a look for real estate meetups in your area as they are an excellent place to network!

Occupancy rates are also excellent with this strategy but in most months you do make a more on a short term rental at the expense of more time for managing it.

Excellent goals there, happy investing! 

I know that networking here on Bigger Pockets is an excellent first step. 

My goal would be to be in an excellent school district (priority) and not too far from the city.

Credit is excellent, and I did consider a great LTV...but I'm wanting to continue to grow as aggressively as possible in the next 6-8 months and decided to do max cashout to help me accomplish this. 

I know there is not a magic formula and it is up to me to put in the work of making the calls and becoming an excellent closer, but I just want to make sure I put my best foot forward.