And lastly, it is one of the few remaining markets that you can get a 'steal' for a property.....all I recommend is that you rely on your 'boots on the ground' to point you in the right area codes.  5/30/24 Update:  I have been patiently waiting until our court date to reply to this post. 

I am interested to know, what tool or tools or even steps do many of you experienced investors rely on when analyzing the numbers to determine if the listing is worth contacting an agent for a showing? 

They want to help their uncle with the cash needed for him but selfishly do not want to give up free rent which they have come to rely. 

The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon.

I'm relying on appreciation of the house to make up for it in the long-term.

The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon.

Well, when it comes to filing taxes I usually don't rely on the kindness of strangers (especially when they have no liability), but if you think getting a lot of replies (some conflicting) will help you make up your mind - Have at it.Honestly, am not trying to be a jerk (as you can see it comes naturally), but your tax guy is the best liability shield against the IRS you have. 

Two months of vacancy every couple of years translates to a lot of rental loss. 

The (property management) owners had great knowledge, answers, and talked about their systems, but that didn't translate to execution at the manager level.

I bet I spend less than 10 minutes on every rental and we consistently rent 200 days a year.Rental history - Unlike long-term rental cash flow, the history of a vacation property is not always translatable to how successful you will be with the property.