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. ????

We are being conscious of property tax on a vacant piece of land (our potential liability) as well as the potential capital gains taxes (their potential liability). 

In my experience, most mom-and-pop investors lose a lot of money due to poor management of tenants, as well as poor/deferred maintenance.

Well since your an attorney and have taken the lead..

I believe I will just be taking over his insurance as well, or that is the intent.

Anyone can tell you they think there are deals out there, but ask them to show you which ones, and then evaluate it for appreciation as well as rental strength. 

I have found other 100% financing options as well.

Some offerr condos, towns and sfr and all do well because they are closer to Disney.

Could you please share with me as well?

Then he is going to hire subcontractors to do the job and you are going to pay them for that work as well.