We have similar investment perspectives - long term equity growth over cash flow. 

Given this was a duplex in a developing area, my strategy was to buy and hold with cash flow.

Texas is a relatively landlord friendly state and there are great markets that have both cash flow and appreciation.

The XIRR formula is much more flexible and is based on the dates of the cash flows for the project.

Although cash flow is not the primary concern, I do not want to own a vacant house.

I have very little knowledge regarding the costs accompanied by this and therefore difficult to calculate deals/cash flow when assessing properties. 

You're getting bad information...1) Too much for cleaning fee - You charge the cleaning fee so you can set it at what you want.

For cash flow on STR, downtown B areas such as Pendleton could be a great option.

Since I come from nothing, I figure I CAN make it there through a diverse portfolio of investing, starting my own airbnb arbitrage business, and dwelling into real estate can create a cash flow and possibly appreciation over time and I will be able to get to the point where I can invest into owning my own resort! 

All they were doing is painting small 1 bedroom units and cleaning.   22 especially seems egregious but just wondering what other people are experiencing.