Since you lack a local network, condos or townhouses with homeowner associations might be beneficial for easier management.

Hi @RonnieI would suggest utilizing the BiggerPockets local meetups tab to network and find out who is RSVP'ing to the events in Miami and targeting those specific individuals given you're out of state. 

The area has been a mecca for vacation rentals for a long time, and the local economy and service professionals are completely entwined with the industry.  

If you haven't already, local meet up groups are a great way of networking and finding local investors who may have a need for your services.

There should definitely be options for you using DSCR which many lenders will count your STR income either based on projection or your rent roll.Also, check local banks instead of brokers.  

I would have paid another experienced local investor (an unbiased party not having anything to do with the sale of the home or selling me services) to do a thorough video tour of every inch of the house before submitting an offer. 

Again, understand the local ordinances. 

I found a local property management company that offers a "lease only service" meaning that they will take pics, market/list the property for rent, handle showings, screenings, and paperwork to onboard the tenant and then hand it over to me to manage.

Our goal is to move to a smaller town with a university branch and purchase 4 plex or duplex investments for student rentals, and this is one type of investments we are interested in because we will be local.

I am on the board of CFRI, the local REIA here in Orlando and we have many private lenders that I could introduce you to, everyone wants their money working for them.