I hope everyone is having a good start to the new year! I just graduated college (Econ and Math degree) and am looking to get my start in real estate investing. I have been listening to BP for about 2 years now, did an internship doing acquisitions in multifamily, and am finally ready to take action! 

I have decided I want to start investing long distance doing short term rentals in Tampa. I'm looking for properties that need a rehab, but not a full gut one as this will be my first time managing a rehab and contractors. Right now I am thinking I would like to find a 2-3 BR property within a 15 minute drive to Busch Gardens (which by proximity will also be close to USF), and I'm hoping to buy a house at around $200k-$250k (financed) along with $50k or less on a rehab. I'd also be open to a small multifamily property.

To my Tampa investors, is my criteria reasonable? I've also heard that some areas around USF may not be that safe. Are there any neighborhoods I should be avoiding or any that you think would be particularly good for STR? Should I look in other parts of Tampa? I would love to connect with any investors, agents, contractors, etc in the Tampa area! I'm also open to lending a hand to people (from a distance since I am located in NH) that want some help in their business.