I came in the middle of high season (11/1) and I was 43% in Nov, 64% in Dec.

However, since you mentioned this is a mid-term rental strategy, make sure to factor in vacancy rates, seasonal demand, and potential furnishing costs, which can be higher than long-term rentals.What you may also want to consider:Exit Strategy: If rates don’t drop within 12-18 months for your refi, what will your backup plan look like?

@Brandon Craig, it sounds like you got your answer from two very seasoned individuals. 

I can see that third bullet point affecting arbitragers for sure.

STR for the high season and mid term for the off season.

An 8-week stay could be a great opportunity, especially during your slow season, but a few things to think about:Since your guest has no reviews, maybe ask for a reference or just have a quick chat to feel things out.

Focus on understanding the path of progress, identifying rental properties with the most potential, learning the seasonality trends, and figuring out which upgrades will really move the needle in that area.

Short-term rentals can offer higher returns but often come with more management complexities such as higher turnover and seasonality.

Can I even break even if Summer rental season is a max of five months, and more likely three?  

Not just a change of seasons. - Your investor idea......