I've been investing in the stock market for 30+ years, but am at the point where I'm ready to diversify more into real estate.I've been lurking on the forums here for quite some time and I am amazed at the value of the posts and level of knowledge that exists here.

Depreciation rules for the two definitions are different.A short-term rental (STR) is a dwelling unit that is used on a “transient” basis.

Honestly, big banks have terrible rates on mortgage.Work with a broker, they are your best bet; pricing beats big banks 9 times out of 10.

Yep it really comes down to risk you want to take on.

Hey Karl, @Karl SzymanskiI can definitely understand the temptation to do something close to home, but it likely will depend on whether you are planning to manage these properties yourself (which I personally, wouldn't since you are simply just buying yourself a new job) and where the best forecasted ROI is at. 

I would really appreciate if you could point me to some of the resources, especially forums focused on the Seattle area.

Can you keep it rented on a regular basis? 

I've decided to use KeyCheck for my MTR listing on FurnishedFinder, and I understand that KC offers criminal background check, credit report, and eviction history.

I'm sixty years old and was toying with the idea of investing some of my retirement money in a home on Cape Cod.    

Its digging in a straight line 85 ft .