I actually shot a simple video of me in a mask and gloves talking about how we are still buying houses in this crisis and how we have adopted our approach.

Highly recommend Vanguard Bogleheads forum for investment advice, and JL Collins "A Simple path to wealth" as a cheap easy read.

Would 6% simple interest for 1 year, renewable for another year make sense if my partner is a close friend?

I would check the deed first and foremost, that will tell you how it was originally purchased and how it is currently owned: one or two parcels, and fee simple or condominium style of ownership (keep in mind condo is a form of ownership, not style of building; whereas "townhouse" is just a style of building). 

@James Wise why would I need a sophisticated business model when the system is quite simple?

Short-term rentals are a high-touch, HUMAN business.The STR business is simple, but it is not easy so you have to play the game with the right Partners.

For new investors looking for an easy way to get into online rent collection and simple property management software you can't go wrong with Cozy.

If they do not answer these very simple questions then move on.

Upon searching for condos I noticed majority of them and what I can afford falls under Fee Simple VS Leaseholds. 

I presented them straight forward deals with a 795 FICO, many deals experience, and they couldn't close a few simple refinances and a straight forward huge equity purchase.