I spoke with many different banks since it was not owner occupied I would have to go up to 25% on a 15yr fluctuating rates .

So, neither of these factors really matter.In any case, unless you are doing major changes, your change in property taxes will be no different than the yearly fluctuation / change. 

I currently live in the state, and am wondering how others have found traction in starting a portfolio with such highly fluctuating markets.

I currently live in the state and am wondering how others are finding traction to begin a portfolio in such highly fluctuating markets.

Location, property aesthetics, amenities, lease terms can all dictate a great deal of fluctuation for the price.  

With more info on the property (ideally an address, but if not then at least a zip code), it's possible to dive deeper into things like comps, market analysis, seasonal expenses (snow removal, utility expense fluctuations), etc.Hope this helps.

@Antwaun Boykin, in my opinion you'll want to focus exclusively on Linear markets or Hybrid markets and stay away from Cyclical markets (which have high underlying land values and high fluctuation in real estate values based on that land value).There are plusses and minuses to many different markets, so ultimately if you have a team member in a linear or hybrid market that you know, like, or trust that is a perfect market to consider.

It's more likely that your returns will fluctuate more than the mortgage rate you pay on your money over the long haul.

If you have a management need that fluctuates, I would hire an independent contractor on a job by job basis.

I want to move forward but I am still researching fluctuations in seasonal rental demand.