It seems ridiculous, but that's the world we live in now.

well if I ever make it to the Smokies to see what the draw is  I will rent a condo then :)  I am just guess but I suspect folks that go there want to be in the woods and hear the birds and maybe some local mtn views etc.. or some sort of privacy they never get at home out east were there is not very much public lands close to where they live in the big city. ????

My suggestions:* Requiring code compliance and safety equipment is absolutely valid and should be part of the regulations* Requiring owners live within 15 miles is not necessary since poor hosts whether they're local or distant will violate the 3-5 warning system and earn a suspension.

I flipped and did some buy and hold when I lived in Florida.   

I’ve been starting my research by seeing what is being bought and what is on the market, and live nearby so would like to check out neighborhoods, but am wondering which neighborhoods I should invest in?

Rodrigues' recommendation may change this), but my next question would be, are there any cities/markets where 1 of the following are true: 1) You have family/friends that live there, 2) You travel there frequently (either for vacation, work, etc.), or 3) Somewhere else you've lived before AND know the area well?

My most trusted and often used contractor who lives in the area, and is practically a friend is the emergency contact.   

Since costs of living depend on the area of the country, this will also influence hourly rates.Again though, Google AI can provide answers!

There has been a squatter living in it for about 3 years, that refuses access to anyone that I have sent out there to assess the property.Safeguard personnel stopped communication with me last year. 

Use tools like the VA loan for house hacking and your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to cover living costs while building equity.