Arizona Investors/Natives: Come on In!!

[Brad Clarizio]

Hey everyone,

I am currently an investor in Columbus, OH (where I am born and raised, and currently living). In the last few months, I've gotten this wicked urge to get the heck out of Ohio- at least for 3-5 months during the winter. 28 years of gray, dreary skies is taking it's toll :).

My role at my full time job is one that, luckily, allows me to work from home or remotely if needed. As the wheels are turning, I've decided (at least I think) to be a snow bird, starting next winter. Arizona has always been a state on my radar, and as it's the sunniest state in the US and doesn't participate in Daylight Savings Time, I think it's the state I've chosen to "bird" to. 

So why I am here:

1) My budget is approximately $150,000, and ideally, I'd like to buy a condo. I own 12 properties here in Columbus and I'm lucky enough to be in a position to finance this condo with 20% down, so I've allocated 30-35k for a down payment. 

2) I have never visited Arizona, but am planning a trip in May. 1 day of the trip will be allocated to checking out real estate, and ultimately seeing what my budget will get me. What are the areas I MUST see? I would like to stay around Scottsdale, and I've taken a liking to Fountain Hills.

3) To play off the point above, what is going to be my rest return for AirBnB'ing this place the rest of the year? I am looking to live here from December-April, so from May-November, what area is best to get at least my mortgage ($600-700) covered per month? Is Fountain Hills going to attract 10 nights worth of stays at $70 each? Or is there another area that's better?

4) What should I absolutely know about Arizona? And, am I bat-crap crazy? 

Thanks for all your input!