That is something I would for sure have to look into as, according to your post, it seems like the timeline for mid-term rentals kind of lines up with the amount of time that we would be gone each year, which would work out well and probably require less of a hassle of trying to maintain the property after each stay for Air BnB.

In the metro-G.R. area where this is, I am, it is difficult to purchase anything that cash flows to rent otherwise, and it is a very hot market yet. 

A $500k property should produce gross annual income of +/- $50K but can generate as much as $65-70k with the right location and amenities like a hot tub.

Tampa’s market has been hot, but if appreciation slows or reverses, you could miss the window to maximize your gains.Exploring a 1031 exchangeA 1031 exchange could allow you to sell the property, defer capital gains taxes, and reinvest into a property with stronger cash flow.

Dry and hot.

Properties with no pool definitely suffer through the hot summer months.

I have smelled it in the halls and in the other tenants air vents.

Chosen right, some of those South side neighborhoods may become hot, and give you large amounts (percentage-wise) of appreciation.

Just be the absolute best host you can be for the first year -- communicate clearly and quickly, make sure cleaning is top-notch, make sure all amenities work (hot tub is hot, TV remotes have batteries, etc. etc.)

Rentals have remained pretty hot outside of common slower times around holidays.