There is no 'title seasoning".Great way to use your own money as the bank and keep the ball rolling...If you have any questions in detail feel free to reach out I am always happy to talk REI.

That’s what’s keeping me from looking there more is I can’t find a lot of info on that area specifically

If it's a cash deal to keep as a rental, I would approach it totally different than if the intent is to re-sell and the buyer will need a traditional loan. 

Do keep in mind as well you may need to recapture any depreciation taken if you go to sell the property and don't use a 721/1031 exchange to assist with deferring that taxable gain.

Fact that I can keep these expenses reported and "retained" on IRS Form 8582 is something new for me. 

It can be frustrating but I'll keep knocking!

Simply tell the seller you want to purchase the property, and "Here's how I'd like to do it"...Keep investing and moving forward!

Should I keep doing this or is there something better for mid-term stays?

I would also keep an eye on what types of properties, with what features are moving faster than others.

Why not just pay for it yourself and keep it?