I have not been very active on this site but want to start.

I suggest you read it before asserting a position.https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/SERVANIMALS_NT...

If you want to do more of a shorter stay to enjoy more revenue, I'd suggest MTR through insurance agencies looking to place people temporarily while their damaged home is being fixed.

I would suggest buying for cash flow and not appreciation. 

We as a firm have investors working with us who have rental properties all over the US big and small.Finding a real estate-focused tax professional and one who can help with advisory and grow with you would be my suggestion to focus your efforts on finding.

I like to have the materials or appliances on site before I pay for them. 

I'd place WM in that same group as utilities.However, someone hauling trash from your rehab site is providing a service to your business and needs a 1099.Here's 101 on 1099s: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/1167632-expla...

And then I will visit regularly for site inspections, move-ins, and meetings.

@Richard Arakelian in non-disclosure states, like Texas, third party sites are not the most accurate way to get get accurate rental data.

Recommended models: What specific models or asset types would you suggest we explore?