Lot of great replies on here already - only thing that I would add to consider is getting a few outside opinions from realtors, other hosts, property managers, etc. about the medium to long term outlook for STR regulation in your specific area.

I’m willing to invest in any market that supports long term rentals! 

We focus on year leases and sometimes allow existing long term tenants to do shorter renewals if they're nearing the end of tenancy and moving or what not.   

It's set to open in 2026 - I think that will be big for that area and short-term rentals.

Once you have a short list, get an account with each one and run them through the wringer to see how they really function.

How accurate is the data provided by AirDND in terms of price and occupancy or do you use a different website to analyze deals?

Shortly after moving in, this house (built in 2006 so 18 yrs old) styarted having issues - cooktop working erratically, they replaced it with a high-end (GE Profile) new one.....Dishwasher started leaking, replaced with brand new GE Profile. 50 Gal water heater went out (elements) they replaced.So in just 6 months, they have spent about $5000 on me.

Those 4 tend to be the most popular sites for mid term rental listings.

Examine the terms of financing. for keeping a rental property as opposed to selling, and take long-term investing objectives into account.

Also of the those properties, ballpark, what percentage were listed and what percentage were distressed (i.e. foreclosure, short sale, off market from a wholesaler, etc...)?