I have locked up one deal off the application and have offered in person on 2-3 other deals.

I will say that if you get some ducks in a row, things like a good cleaner, handy person etc, you could manage from farther away if you find a deal or area you are interested in.

I  would look at your town regulations and see also if they have any unrelated persons ordinances and what they say about boarding houses. 

This takes you out entirely.You could hold the funds in escrow, and have the title company release only to the window guy upon your approval.

you mention the person who is complaining is now and living in an efficiency unit (to me that has everything in it-ie fridge, stove). 

We took this approach because even though the house is an STR it is also one we want to use as a family a couple times per year, and we feel we have our own personality as hosts, so we were particular about what we wanted. 

It's not a terrible strategy except you tend to end up with broke, desperate tenants because those with reasonable funds would prefer cheaper rent and a returnable deposit. 

I have the funds for a 3-4 month long VA cold calling campaign.

I gave them a lease in person to review and sign (I gave them the lease first as they mostly speak Spanish and the lease is in English, so I wanted to give them the time to read it).

But it's tough work and doesn't always pay off.I personally think the big profit is in new development or a project.So, I'm wondering: Is starting something new a better bet?