I would talk with people about what I do and then, one day I had a colleague approach me and ask what return he could get if he lent me money.  

@Chris Gantz overall sound approach.

Ok, so as the day approaches where I take all my research and finally start making offers, I have been putting together my team for my BRRRR goals.

I see some people who only do internet advertising/ social media and email but it seems expensive to scale and not a super proactive approach.

Based on both your comments, however, it sounds like both approaches may be worth looking into further.Thanks a bunch! 

That said, the best way to approach is would be through a combination of Airbnb, VRBO/HomeAway, Booking.com AND Direct Bookings.

I've brought this issue up with my PMs and they tell me that even if the tenants conduct contributed to the problem, if you want to run higher end rentals with desirable long-term tenants it's advisable to let the charge fall back on the landlord.We just look at it as part of creating goodwill with good tenants, which I've concluded myself is long-term the best approach.

I realize March is approaching fast and that you may already have a home picked out, but Landon Allen has good recommendations on surrounding towns/cities to possibly move to that aren't far drives at all from EL.

This is all a networking business, and having local contacts that can help guide you would be the best approach. 

Here is a private money lender who approached me at a very cheap interest rate, Can someone tell me if it is legit or not?