Municipalities changing ordinances has been problematic for STR investors, something that has transpired in my beachside location of Florida's Space Coast.

I work with a few investors in the SE Florida area as I am physically located here as well.

In a great and popular location with rising rents and upside on price with renovations but also that will cost in the short term to improve the property. 

Make the land as inviting as possible for the location.

@Lau Cor Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Why is Property Class so important for investors to understand and apply in their investing strategies?

You will find that people are successful in every market you mentioned but depending on your cash position, a successful rental in one location or the other might not be as ideal for you. 

Purchase price: $285,000 Cash invested: $33,500 In May 2024, I purchased this duplex as a house hack opportunity located in the heart of College Station.

I know that the general guidance is that emergency funds aren't to be invested, but given our financial security and the fact that we already have a personal e-fund in a safe, non-volatile location, would it still be crazy/unwise to invest this 15k in an S&P500 index fund in a brokerage? 

Our locations of interest include Augusta, GA, Macon, GA, and Atlanta, GA. 

Property #1 is a turnkey, fully rehabbed 2/1 1000sq ft house in a location that will rent for $1200.