STR Realistic Data/Expectations

[Charlie Moore]

Hey all, this is my first post on BP - thanks in advance! This community has been so helpful! 

I am cashing out of a rental and would like to turn this into some good cash flow. I am debating between multi-fami and STR. I'm leaning slightly towards STR int he Blue Ridge Mountains. My questions concerns the data and setting realistic expectations. AIRDNA and property management companies are projecting numbers that will make me financially independent in 6 months.....I'm slightly exaggerating, but the numbers are good. However, whenever I get on AIRBNB I am seeing homes with excellent size, finishes, and views (probably better than what I can afford) that are renting $50-$70 less per night than the numbers I'm being quoted.

How accurate is AIRDNA? It is risky to get into a market with hundreds of STR? If anyone has a STR in the mountains feel free to reach out. I'm still early in my investing career and can't afford to break even on this bad boy. Thanks so much.