Hi Jon! I just recently bought my first rental in Cherry Log and had it listed by end of December 2021. I've found the area to be incredibly over-saturated with rentals, really driving down nightly rates and occupancy. My average is around $160-170/night for a 3/2 lake view, which is low compared to other markets I'm in. I'm in a few facebook groups with cabin owners in blue ridge and my neighborhood, and many are saying their bookings are way down year over year (some with no bookings at all), apparently due to the increase in short termrentals available.
That being said, if you do buy something, I'd make sure it has some features that will set your cabin apart. I think having some kind of a view is crucial. Or maybe there's less competition with larger cabins? Most in my neighborhood are 3 bed max. It does seems like many of the top listings are still doing very well, so if you can differentiate yourself, get good reviews, and price your cabin right, I think Blue Ridge can be a good market.
In regard to renters, we've had a couple large groups come up from Atlanta and throw parties, but the majority of guests have been great - families, couples, small groups of friends.
There are cleaners in the area, but I'm not sure on the quality. I'm in the process of looking to change cleaners and am struggling to get responses from others. I've had a couple recommended ones tell me they're unable to find reliable staff, so they aren't taking on new cabins right now. I haven't had an issue finding good handymen.
Hope this info helps! Best of luck!
