If you had managed to purchase in those areas back then, your cash-on-cash return might look quite different today, especially with rental demand still holding strong.

Quote from @Chris Watkins: Quote from @Chris Watkins: Quote from @Eric Lee: Hi all,I'm looking to acquire my first rental property and am strongly leaning towards a short-term rental while doing a MTR for off-peak seasons.

Consider if refinancing after increasing rents could work, and whether MTR/STR demand is strong enough to sustain long-term profitability.Keep as LTR with Minimal Cash Flow: While this avoids a cash outlay, being cash flow negative or barely breaking even isn’t sustainable long-term.

I’m guessing the rental market in Alexandria is very strong so you’d better make it worth it.

NE Minneapolis has strong rental demand, but no area is hot in the Winter.

.- Build a Strong Buyers List EarlyA solid buyers list is your safety net.

If that's the case I would strongly suggest building your team before pulling the trigger on an Airbnb.

@Lolo DruffWhen investing in properties, I aim to balance high cash flow with appreciation potential in affordable, stable markets with strong rental demand.

However, like any market, success depends on selecting the right neighborhoods and building a solid team on the ground.In Indianapolis, areas like Broad Ripple, Fountain Square, and Irvington have seen strong appreciation and rental demand, but they can be more competitive.

Some banks and credit unions are more flexible, especially if you have a strong financial profile.