Yes AirDNA is one source.

Though growth markets are attractive for the appreciation, I would balance it with some cash-flowing properties (in income markets), or properties in hybrid markets (where you can some cash-flow and some appreciation).

Some people want passive income and max performance. 

Let's consider the Seattle Metropolitan area; an SFH (Single Family Home) would cost around $1M, and the taxable income is $500k.My questions are as follows:1.

I am using my newfound access to the MLS as a tool to source good deals and make educated and sound investment decisions.

Some just make perpetual threatening phone calls.Some start court actions, so they get a money judgment which they can use to at least garnish state income taxes (you can't garnish federal returns).Property owners need to start asking PMCs HOW they will execute their services, so owner expectations can be better met:)

I like the position of Wes Moss from his books and podcast - more than 1 source of income (RE + something else), paid off primary residence, a pile of liquid cash or investment reserves (he suggests $500k+). 

As a note: 7 out of 10 of our past midterm rentals have been sourced off of Airbnb. 

I sell insurance and am commission based so I would like some sort of passive income.

I’ve been researching for over a year and have knowledge, mentors, and potential funding sources but find pulling the trigger and starting on my own very difficult.