Not sure if I should be looking for a bigger company or a small or local broker.

I'd suggest starting by joining your local Real Estate Investor Association and attending any real estate meet-ups in your area.

You'll want to focus on areas: - With multiple drivers to the local economy (not just 1 industry)- Steady population growth (demand)- Increasing median rentsIf I were in your shoes, I'd begin conducting research on different cities of interest.

Hi,Check your local lead laws. 

I use a local commercial bank.

I was trying maybe to find local GC's in the area to work for to get more hands on experience. or throw myself in the ocean and figure out on my own.

The best way to find this would be to contact local PM companies that manage STRs and ask what they charge.

I have a local Facebook group with 99k members and it's just a group for our town.

I'll message you contact info for a local agent that can give you several options to consider.

I think I'll save more by using an experienced local architect that can provide contractor contacts and cost-saving design features and products (like windows, doors, finishes, etc.).