Look at all your options and research what type of real estate investing is the best option for you.

Does anyone know any other options out there ?

You will then have a few options with that rent money....you can put it into principal or you can start saving it to purchase yet another property.

Zero credit facilities or mortgage options and investor lethargy.

DSCR loans are a great option for anyone that doesn't fit the conventional "box" - DTI isn't a factor, no employment info needed, no W2s, paystubs, tax returns, 1099s, etc. needed, you can close in an LLC if you want to and many lenders don't report to personal credit, so those loans won't affect your credit score/DTI for any conventional financing you might pursue in the future.

Some people need heaps of positive affirmation and they want you to keep their stuff as a gift and be grateful.I agree with @Bill Brandt as well, people are strange.

Alternatively, I could hope that my next assignment will be in a better market with more options, maybe lower rates, and more cash on hand.Should I accept that no market is perfect and get in the game now, or hold out for a year to enter a potentially better market with more capital to invest?

Cash flowing positive.

STR that do the best have a target audience based on the the surrounding options that improve the vacation experience.

We have good products for under 30 days and over 6 months, but not a lot of great options for between.