Out of everyone I’ve used I’ve only found ONE contractor who is extremely reliable, professional, and will work the entire day (also an issue out here in the high desert).

As far as birds burning up, that has happened in a few isolated incidents with concentrated solar farms in the Mojave desert, which is a completely different technology than rooftop solar.

Hi Maureen,I am a realtor that specializes in working with short-term rental investors and have helped several BiggerPockets members acquire real estate (single-family homes and vacant land) to use as short-term rentals.It's definitely going to depend on your budget first and foremost.In the Southern California High Desert (Joshua Tree and neighboring towns), you must refrain from purchasing a property in a residential neighborhood unless the property is uniquely positioned to have no neighbors adjacent and unobstructed views from the backyard otherwise the property must be on acreage.

To maximize cash flow, and for the sake of prices, I've been looking in Desert Hot Springs, Indio, 29 Palms, etc.

I'm an IA Alum and living in LA, CA, flipping in the valley and the desert. 4 at a time right now, but longing to return to IA.

We had three offers within the first weekend in the middle of August (which is the hottest month in the desert).

I've even looked in high desert markets (90 minute drive time) where you can get a property for the mid $100's, but the rents still don't pencil.

From campers, to TeePees in the desert, mountains, ski towns, and even in Massachusetts, it’s happening.  

I know things are going well because that investor just closed on her second Scottsdale home (with me) that she is prepping to STR.Janaya GoselinArizona Desert Vacations360-296-4935 (She is local, despite her area code)Hope this helps!

It's desert/west coast vibes for sure.