It may seem counter intuitive, but the basics of real estate mentioned above are actually MUCH more important for long term success than the knowledge of any one technique or strategy. 

I view my primary as my long-term home, 3 young kids with a good school system, so this is where we are settled.

Would love to connect with you and hear more about your current investment and what you are thinking in terms of your next one!

I'm thinking of investing in a property in Miami (Edgewater area) for short term rentals.

This may not be a free option, since they will likely want to be paid for their time.But back to Jonathan and Gino's advice, typically, the more units you can pile in there, the better.  

Then I explain my process in brief and simple terms: background check, lease agreement, collect deposits and ask if they'd like to proceed.

So, I had to get the owner and tenant agree that it actually took place. 2) Meeting Tenants - I would say not needed, but certainly when their lease is up, you want to re-screen the using your screening criteria for income, background, etc... 3) Review the leases and understand expirations and lease renewal terms if any.

About $1500 origination fee is the typical amount I've been seeing the last year

Whose term was "mostly covered?"  

I initially planned to invest in Lancaster but was priced out and needed cashflow in the short term...What are your concerns?