Sure, creative finance can make you an extra $60K per deal which, for the record, I am in no way disagreeing with or knocking.

Even if appreciation is modest, consistent rent plus tax benefits can outpace what a volatile market offers, especially if you value peace of mind in a downturn.

Quote from @Andrew Steffens: STR IMO is great for people- Who want to own a second (or third +) home in a desirable place where they can get personal use out of- Investors expecting modest returns but can invest in better neighborhoods leading to hopefully higher appreciation.- High end luxury/unique property owners with higher than average returns.Otherwise you are likely experiencing similar results to what you mentioned, of course depending on the market. 

The more doors that you knock on and the more calls that you make the higher the probability someone will give you an opportunity.

The second is the person who goes all in; they have modest, realistic goals with an action plan to attain them through wholesaling or buy n' hold.

I have a year to continue to try contacting the owner for a purchase -- I could even get myself to Ohio and knock on their door and force the issue! 

I am looking for recommendations for an Accountant/CPA who works with newer STR investors at a more modest price point.

In the meantime, door knock ,find distressed properties you can wholesale or sell to local investors to make more of a savings - your side hustle. 

Sorry for delay...a death in the family knocked me offline for a few weeks.

Most forecasts are pointing to gradual, modest cuts over the next few quarters, not a rapid drop.If your current rate is significantly higher, a streamline refinance could still make sense now — especially if it doesn’t involve a full re-underwrite or appraisal.