I think this will not be popular with some tenants as they aren't planning that far ahead? 

Look for areas with high need for rentals, growing numbers of people, and rising business activity.

Tell them a little bit about your plans for the property - a lot of tenants' first thoughts are that a new owner will come in and either immediately kick them out, or immediately raise the rents. 

I value the role of having a solid network, which I've established in the Kansas City architecture realm, and am excited about getting to know you all in the real estate business in the KC Metro area! 

Also, most decent STR property managers will be happy to offer projections for properties, or even realtors who do a lot of STR business as well. 

Trying to avoid having too many transitions in carpet to hardwood/vinyl flooring and plan on doing LVP throughout the entire unit, bedrooms and bathroom included.

@Chris Mason Thank you for the facts about the VA loan and the insights my friend, I do plan on doing a version of your example, unfortunately I don't believe the spread will be as lucrative in small town WI lol.

I use 25% of the purchase price for my own tax planning. 3.

The absolute best city or town to invest in ( do not get stuck on the notion of investing in major metros or you will miss out on many interesting opportunities) is . . . the one where you have a team you can trust, where you are able to learn the market and its nuances and get to a point where you are comfortable doing business there because you know how things work and what the market requires for success.

My plan would not be to landlord myself, I'd hire a management company to do the landlording.