I’m an architect so I have a good idea about design and managing construction.

I currently have W-2 earnings and realize that I can buy a STR, spend 100 hours fixing it up and staging it, and perhaps manage to get a few guests before the end of the year.

For more precise estimates of rental revenue, think about speaking with nearby property managers or real estate brokers that focus on rental properties.Closing costs: Compute the closing expenses for the duplex purchase, taking into account attorney fees, title insurance, property taxes, appraisal fees, and loan origination fees.

But it was before and it's picking up again now.Properties are in Washington state, greater Seattle area but not in Seattle proper, not landlord friendly area still....I'm early 40's and tired of being a landlord or being tied to the area I don't want to live in anymore due to having to manage the properties (PM too expensive).

Then after that, it's all about forming relationships with agents, lenders, and property managers who know the area as well.

I was a Mid level IT manager at Intel for 23 years.

I always volunteer to manage our clients purchases in person when they buy in the USVI :)But just like you can sell any where in the US and buy anywhere in the US - You can also sell any type of investment real estate and buy any other type of investment real estate. 

Did you ever manage to find your answer?

Do you plan to do a long term rental and self manage?

The more time you spend on your Real Estate "Investment", the more it's a Business and not an Investment.I self-manage, so it's both an Investment and a Business.