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.

I think living on a main road could certainly be a potential deterrent for any potential buyer or renter.

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.

My name is Stacy and I live in Northeast Georgia.

You couldn't pay me to live there now, at least past 1604 area. 

Are you planning on living in your first property?