Seeking 1st Short Term Vacation Rental

[Devin Fakner]

Good Day BiggerPockets!

I am seeking to purchase my 1st short-term vacation rental on the beach and I would truly appreciate any guidance/opinions the BiggerPockets community would be willing to share.

I am interested in starting somewhat small, financially; I know "small" is relative to the location. I am also drawn towards South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Texas, or CA.

Does anyone have any experience they'd be willing to share? What are the locations you found worked best? How did you ensure occupancy rate was high enough to keep the investment profitable? Condo vs Single Family House?

Thank you all in advance.