I really appreciate your responses.I have a unique perspective as I'm not looking to buy real estate myself.

The states being red is a common theme. 

THat 2/1 is 700k-ish, just now I see 4/2 900k-ish but has basement and unique layout, rent from several rooms can be $3k-$4k here, if mortgage is $4.5 then you actual mortgage is only $0.5-$1.5.

I would think it would be a very unique situation where this might happen.

What may be somewhat unique is the retirement account isn’t technically a 401k that I can access whenever I want - it’s private company stock which I can only cash out upon death, termination, or retirement.

No restriction to places with unique laws such as San Jose.There is  abundance of opportunities.  

Great dialogue - we don't get too many lively discussions for the Huntsville area threads - ha ha.So I see a lot of posts in favor of Hazel Green - everyone has their own REI strategy, which is what makes REI a unique adventure for each of us.  

To me the perfect short term rental property needed to be unique.

@Jessie Reddtwo recurring themes are delayed gratification and who you surround yourself with.For me, it was definitely the people I was surrounding myself with. 

Adding some artwork to help give the place more character - $100-200 on Etsy or Society6 can get you some really unique prints that will help your apartments show well in listing pics and really set them apart from the competition.If you have the space outdoors, the quickest and easiest amenities to add are a fire pit and BBQ grill (or maybe a patio as well, if you're so inclined).