If during the next 2.5 years, the owner redeems the property i get the money + interest back, but lets say they do not redeem the property. 3)  Within the last 6 -3 months of the expiration of the redemption period, I will file a petition at the circuit court for the tax deed 4)  At the same time, after filing the petition for deed, I will need to send "Notice of Expiration of period of Redemption" Take Notice to the county so they can mail it to the home owners and any interested parties informing them to redeem asap. 5) I will subtax early the following taxes as soon as they are generated by the county. 6) Inform the property owner in three ways, certified mail from the Circuit Court Clerk, being personally served by, the Sheriff’s office; and notice being published in a local newspaper. 7)If the taxes are not paid and the last date to redeem passes, the tax buyer can apply to the Circuit Court for an Order directing the County Clerk’s office to issue a tax deed to the tax buyer.

At the state level a law was proposed to place additional 15% tax (on top of local occupancy tax) on STRs.  

I found a few local mentors who helped me get started (free of charge, just bought them coffee/lunch when I needed advice), and then found a mastermind.

Join a local REIA. 

Can you recommend any strategies for finding and vetting a reliable and communicative law firm specializing in real estate transactions, particularly those that might not be local to the property?

I've heard from locals in the know that the area is gentrifying and coming up, but I cannot confirm the accuracy of that statement. 

I am attempting to avoid a neighbor dispute about an oak tree branch hanging over their property and would like to consult with an attorney to be clear on the local law.  

Get a solid understanding of the business via going to local REIA's, signing up for free webinars and attending events4.

I think we are already starting to see that shift, and that midterm rentals will grow in popularity not only with travelers but also with local tenants.

I am very interested in a local meet up.