Another step is to ask your current lender if an expedited post-disaster inspection can be arranged to speed things up.

Columbus has been pretty solid for investors - we're seeing steady growth without the crazy peaks and valleys of bigger markets.

Speed of building a portfolio (Cash-on-Cash return is a factor here)?

At that time, i will have the knowledge and network to expand and build my portfolio at an increasing speed and then it will be part of my growing pains for my business.I will most likely have that CPA do my returns for the real estate and then have my Tax Accountant still do my Personal, helps with Checks and Balance and cost savings.Do you have cost segregation, or anything like that on any of your properties?  

We're relatively new STR owner/operator in Highlands and have been very pleasantly surprised with demand even outside the peak summer season.

.✔ Consider a Shorter Lease – Offering a 6 month or 18 month month lease can align the renewal with the peak spring/summer rental season.✔ Hire a Professional Property Manager – An experienced property manager can market the listing more effectively, screen tenants, and minimize vacancy, which is especially useful for a new investor.✔ Invest in Professional Photos – High-quality photos and a well-written listing can significantly improve interest, especially in a slower rental season.✔ Ensure All Basic Maintenance Issues Are Addressed – A rental sitting on the market is a great time to check for leaks, HVAC performance, paint touch-ups, and deep cleaning to make sure it’s move-in ready.

Get up to speed more before doing this first deal.

I don't mean to be negative and obviously, you are going to do what you want to do, but to put it in perspective, I bought one of my 1st properties in 1990 (at a peak), and sold at a significant loss in 1997, due to specific circumstances.

One golden rule I follow,if it takes a long time to fix/replace when it breaks, don't buy a cheap one.Imagine, this thing breaks in the middle of your peak season and the people who can come out to rebuild are 2 weeks out....It takes at least a day or two to build something like this even if you are super skilled.

Realize that today you are looking to buy into the real estate market towards its recent peak.