If you know of any local groups, events, or online communities where I could meet others who share this interest!

Would you recommend them?

I believe this is correct - doable but very challenging to qualify STR with conventional in a high-rate environment like we've been in.Sharing this article published last year on STR Loans Options Pros/Cons, etc if it helps!

I personally think the greater Tampa bay area is going to be a top 5 metro in appreciation over the next 10-15 years, likely to end up averaging high 9s-low 12s in percent growth annually.

In high cost areas, it may be virtually impossible to cashflow/hit the 1% rule today.

Leverage allows this ridiculous high return. 401ks don’t.

But it sounds like you haven't spoken with a lender yet so your budget could be higher than you think.If you need a lender recommendation, shoot me a PM.

@V.G Jason Thanks for the recommendation.

Question here is-- have any of you used someone you really like and can recommend?

Any recommendations to manage this via a different route?