We drug our feet too long on the property initially of interest, and we got outbid.  

Going a little over the top in the bathroom could be a good strategy, it's low square footage so it won't break the bank if you use more expensive tiling or fixtures

Both are two story, both are around the same square footage, similar bed/bath, etc.

you guys are the reason they now put them 15 feet up on the pole  :)    and or buy bus bench advertising or buy radio spots or buy the HWY signs  and TV spots .. i have seen all of those lately..  

For a quick glance to rule out properties, I look at the price and particularly price per square foot.

You live in Clearwater...did you know that the Pinellas Peninsula is about 3 feet above Mean High Water level?

I would probably say, start at home....get your feet wet here....once you get a handful of properties here where there is all kind of opportunity, then if you want to put your toe in the water in a market where you speak the language and very familiar with customs, laws, rental market, and real estate market, then try it out.

How long does it take to get the cold feet to go away?

I live near Gordon Square and we have been able to get started much quicker that anticipated. 

Hi @Nicole VincentI'm a newbie when it comes to STRs, but jumped in with both feet after some long discussions with Avery and Luke Carl.