I then decided to look for a flip based off what I was seeing in my local market.

We'd love to see you at some of our local meetups!

As for mentoring, maybe check out local investment clubs or online communities like Reddit's investing or personal finance subs.

You may want to look into REI meetups in your local area.

Also in case of fire or flood, I know a regular homeowner's insurance will have no problem covering it.I have been wondering, if the local regulation doesn't require it, why do we need pay thousands of extra for STRs? 

I’m a local agent here in Memphis.

Also, check how the local market vibes with wraps; some places dig 'em, others not so much.

The top Vacation Rental Hacks I've learned in ten years as a BNB operator, DIY'er, investor and broker that has sold over two dozen vacation rentals: - Hosting and ManagementUse a local Super Host, neighbor or new friend to reduce operating costs and increase property TLC.

If you build custom homes local to you it might be a really nice move to always build two homes at a time. 

We own both long term and short term rentals locally after cashing out on CA real estate in 2020 and moving here.