Hi Karen, when you find a buyer and have both signed the sales agreement, you will then open escrow with a title company.

@Randall E Collins One way around the assignment is merely draft an amendment to the original contract with the agent stating "Buyer and Seller agree that XYZ (your end buyer) is the buyer" (or word it how you all agree) BUT have an email with the end buyer and the closing company stating what your fee is first to secure your fee. 

Each company has different guide lines.

Is your plan to self manage or use a property management company for the future?

Having spent several decades in management in a large company, I know that situations can often be quickly assumed (correctly or incorrectly) to be for such cause, so there is more effort required to justify one's action. 

Not so shameless plug here, but I live in NY and started investing in Kentucky without going there until I picked up my third property and now I work for that company as well (from New York).You don't need to go to the State you end up deciding to buy in but its always a good idea to link up with a solid management company is going to keep you in the loop as to whats going on with your property and have your interest in mind.You should get an LLC and register in the state that the property for tax purposes. 

Hey Noe, the companies willing to insure mixed use buildings has changed drastically in the last 12 months, and will change again in another 6-12 months. 

The tech industry, a significant employment driver, continues to see growth, attracting both established companies and startups.

What is your thought on starting or purchasing an existing STR management company? 

The seller's agent mentioned they have a backup cash offer from Wedgewood (a flipper company), but the price is lower than mine, and she has to do some numbers to make it work.