Anthony is correct that if you expect no appreciation, fear depreciation, and might want to move in short time....that favors the "rent" (and buy/sell transaction costs can really persuade you this way.)

Also, do not fear the eviction.

I'm currently trying to analyze deals in the area. but one thing I fear is overpaying for a property and thinking it was a "deal."

If they're a great team they shouldn't fear being totally transparent about hiccups and how they made it right. 

Given the state of the market, I am fearful of making mistakes.

Grab an investor who has shaken the fear off....AND GET TO IT!!

Feels risky, but am I just used to mediocrity and fear? 

The irony with this"fear of disturbing the neighborhood" nonsense is that hundreds of folks are already doing STR locally and no one realizes it!

I'm an "unborn" investor and one of the biggest fears I have is buying a money pit.

Why not blend all of your ideas together, you say you fear house-hacking because of job stability/tenants so why not rent the rooms in the mobile home out to college students who don't care that they are in a mobile home and they will likely more than pay the payment on the mobile home (if you can get a loan to purchase it).