Your problem is getting your hands dirty with this and not having a property manager. 

Look for places with lots of people wanting to rent, areas growing fast, and schools that are top-notch.

Talk and connect with people who know about buying homes.

Unlike when walking a dog, they aren't present to see it happen or where so that is a common and practical approach to handling the issue for most people.

My broker's property management company is local to the area and very familiar and comfortable with this product type if you want hands off management.

Would love to hear people's experiences in these markets or recommendations of other markets that are more on the "untapped" side.

What you are asking is for someone to put their investment in the hands of someone who has no experience.

Most people in the forums are recommending Proper Insurance for STR insurance, and I was able to get a quote from them quickly.

(and there are lots of people here to offer advice!)

People have mixed opinions on this, but in one market I invest in, I researched and interviewed dozens of companies and went through 3 before ultimately confirming that there really was nothing which would suit my needs.