We're right next to CA but get the benefits of no state income tax, 4th lowest property taxes, much more friendly landlord/tenant laws, no serious weather, proximity to Lake Tahoe, stable job growth/population growth, etc. 

It’s the reason the lake front “retirement” home I bought on Lake Minnetonka in MN has had a tenant in it for the last 10 years.

As a resident (who travels a lot) I would say the Midwest does not have the attractions like palm trees & beaches (the great lakes are cold) or amazing mountain ranges, which often come with some disadvantages like high cost of living or hut/humid weather, stroms etc. 

If salt lake city is a low cap rate market then its impossible.

I lived in Napa for a decade and invested heavily in Sonoma and Lake counties as he did. 

Best decision I've ever made. 4-6% average annual appreciation rate, stable job growth, population growth, drivable to the Bay Area, close to Lake Tahoe, no state income tax, 4th lowest property taxes in the Nation, much more landlord friendly than CA, land constrained meaning limited supply, etc. 

Lake side homes are more desirable for short term rentals in this area but not impossible to accomplish.

I just got off a call with my supposed consultant who was allegedly going to answer any remaining questions I had about private money brokering.

I would like to network with anyone with experience in Port Huron, Lexington and along the Thumb Coast of Lake Huron to Caseville. 

Based on your post it kind of sounds like you want a beach/lake house but like the idea of it making money too.