Additionally, consider operational costs like cleaning, staffing, and marketing, as they can quickly add up.For management, outsourcing to a professional property manager or leveraging tech platforms for bookings and operations could streamline things, especially if you plan to scale.

I went through it anyway bc she had a good footprint online, I liked the designs, and a couple of ppl at another STR group recommended her (not an excuse, I was super busy and thought I was dealing with a professional).

It is easy to find an accountant, but it is not easy to find a professional accountant.

It's nerve wracking but true that traveling professionals are booking really close to when they come to town.

And perhaps they realized that they couldn't staff permitting and enforcement for the program. 

But by and large I like the construction as the sub trades are far more professional than most any one who is doing rehab work on houses..

Also, you could explore MTRs as there are a lot of traveling professionals in the area.

Are there specific military programs or contacts I should look into for housing opportunities?

If it's managed well by a professional, you are more likely to succeed, grow an appreciation for it, and maybe take over management some day. 

Quote from @Jake Hughes: Whats up BP community.What professional photographers are people using to market their rehabbed properties?