Besides the information Zillow provides (emerging credit score in the mid 640s), I'd like to issue a background check and credit inquiry - question is, can someone please recommend some of the good platform to run a credit and background check?

Once you've made it through the inspection period with your contract, you can join Management Mondays, where Luke Carl teaches all about the software needed to run a successful STR remotely, the pros and cons of various platforms, how to find vendors in the area, and so much more.  

Been educating myself for a little over a year and making connections with great individuals from this platform.

In general, it's a sketchy idea to invest ALL of your savings in any one thing (which is why having a diversified portfolio is one of the most fundamental rules of investing).Also, the STR market is slowing and changing very quickly right now--last I checked, there was a lot of data suggesting that the STR market had become saturated, and that STR vacancies are way up in many markets.  ...not to mention, AirBnB recently changed their platform to focus on top-end, very unique properties (meaning that properties that are not extremely high-end, unique, and managed by the top-tier professionals are getting the short end of the stick).There are many indicators that we are in, or are entering a recession, and the first  thing people cut from their budgets in a recession is discretionary spending (like spending on vacations and STRs). ...in a recession, the STR market often gets hit much harder than the LTR market.Plus, as far as I can tell, it sounds like you have no experience running a STR (or any property)?

I also verify that they are paying rent by getting a screenshot of whatever platform they use. 

I am a HUGE proponent of Apartments.com and absolutely love that platform.

I will say, we have been successful in finding and buying quality listings via platforms such as loopnet and crexi but it seems that well has dried up a bit. 

@Frank Rodrigues : What platform did you curate the data from, and is it applicable to the area of your choosing?

I am a huge fan of the platform overall, but as a PM I would find some tweaks to the scoring system very useful.Even being able to request past LL references right in the profile, and more questions about the care and handling of the animal on a day to day basis.

Regarding the DIY approach:- Background checks can run you $20-$50 each from platforms like tenantbackgroundsearch.com, American Apt Owners Assoc., e-renter, rentprep and more- Dozens of platforms, listed here, allow you to post your rental listings online for a range of fees depending on subscription length, account type, and features requested- Run comps using 3rd party sites to see what recent rental apartments have rented for (not to be confused with active rental listings), & price your rental unit accordingly- Lastly, hire a professional photographer or cash in a favor from a friend with a good camera!