I use a combination of BP calcs (not the most user-friendly if you want to make changes or run "what-ifs"), DealCheck.io (I like the UI a little better), and spreadsheets (customization for unique cases). 

Yeah, there are so many different things in that region that give it value. 

Bigger Pockets also has some regional meetings as well.

If the properties are spread over separate regions, you would work through the Broker and perhaps get loans from different local banks.  

Gary, I have a unique way of structuring lease options/owner financing.In the past, I simply have my buyer sign off on a quitclaim deed and hold it in escrow at a title company.

Expenses unique to short term rental:- Utilities (trash, water, sewer, gas, internet, tv)- Cleaning and prep- Consummables (soaps, towels, linens)- Hotel taxes (this depends on your locality)Also, to Rob's point, it is more management intensive than long term rental. 

When I’m stateside, I have a rather transient base, usually crashing with friends and family in CA, but by no means limited to any specific geographic region.

Make sure you understand the unique lending parameters of a bridge lender before submitting a loan.

However, our situation is unique, with using the GI bill for school and not planning to have a "full-time" income (we have toddlers that I stay home with).

For those of you not aware, I was a real estate agent previously in California (also with RE/MAX).I will be working in the Houston area, primarily in the Northwest region, and would welcome the opportunity to help any buy and hold investors and/or sellers of rentals (homes or small multi-families).