You'll likely see variation (even within a zip code) based on condition even though all might be 3 bedroom 1 bath homes (as an example).

However, there are some challenges to keep in mind:Regulatory Variations: Regulations can vary widely between locations and are constantly evolving.Active Management: STRs require more hands-on management for guest turnover and communication.Additional Costs: Don’t forget about expenses for furnishings, cleaning, and possibly hiring a property manager.If you’re looking for STR-friendly areas, consider these locations, as others can be too expensive to consider, such as Snowmass Village or Aspen:Breckenridge: The most visited ski resort in North America, attracting around 3 million tourists each year.Steamboat Springs: A popular year-round destination for winter sports and summer activities.Keystone: Great for those wanting a less crowded resort experience.Divide & Florissant: Charming mountain towns close to Colorado Springs.Fairplay: Just 30 minutes south of Breckenridge, with an impressive 82% Airbnb occupancy rate.Cripple Creek: A former mining town now known for casinos and outdoor activities.Park County: Very Airbnb-friendly, though regulations may change.Here are some strategies to help you succeed in the STR market:Hybrid Model: Consider using some units for STRs and others for long-term rentals to balance income.Research Local Regulations: Always check the current rules in your target areas before investing.Year-Round Appeal: Focus on locations that attract visitors in all seasons.Quality Furnishings: Invest in quality to justify higher nightly rates and attract better guests.Dynamic Pricing: Use pricing strategies to maximize revenue during peak seasons while maintaining occupancy in the off-season.Stay Flexible: Be ready to adapt your strategy as the market and regulations change.While Colorado’s STR market offers exciting opportunities, it’s essential to approach it strategically.

Selling and dropping the equity into an index fund is a lower-maintenance option, but you’d be locking in your gains at a relatively stagnant point in the market.Given your low interest rate and the potential for rents to inch up, renting could be a reasonable play.

Very good, and I think in the future excellent, equity play just not tangible for the average investor now. 

If you play this right you will be set up for life and you don't want to look back and regret the nickel and dime negotiating that cost you a huge upside.Use the extra space for RV/Boat and Camper parking for your tenants.

The wholetail is a smart play, but you should be cleaning the place thoroughly and doing no repairs and then presenting an honest proforma with rents and expenses estimated so investors have a PDF to look through.

Networking also plays a vital role; connecting with other investors, real estate agents, and industry experts can provide valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities.

Both GC's work on distressed properties so are hedging playing it safe as I just asked them for budgetary numbers to help determine if I should do this deal or not.I do have 10%+ in cash reserves already.

I'm under no pressure to do or buy anything so watching the CRE space play out from the sidelines works just fine for me.If that's your definition of a clown, it's time for me to go paint my face! 

Seems to me the play today is simply be a preferred equity investor.