What to do with a snowbird rental?

[Karine Ingraham]

Hi All! 

We are looking to buy a single family in Tucson for my MIL to rent from us in the winter.   My husband grew up down there so he has some familiarity with the area.We are wanting to hold on to it for use as a future rental property when she no longer uses it- possibly Airbnb or military or college rental? 

My question is - what do you do with a rental in the summer? Is there any market for an Airbnb or do you just close up the home? Would a condo be a safer choice in that respect? This would be the start of our real estate investing, so all input is welcome! Thanks!