Presently, however, no matter how well the property could be fixed up, it will not command a high rent. 

However, I will go on a limb here and say they also command higher rents.

While South FL does command high rents, the problem is that the setup costs are likely the highest.

or Is it best by using the rent that it can command after the rehab?

Not all properties command the same ADR or occupancy rates.Regarding tourism numbers, it appears that Big Bear receives the most visitors a year followed by Joshua Tree and then Palm Springs.Regarding home prices, Joshua Tree has the lowest barrier of entry and so the best ROI potential is in Joshua Tree.Aside from Joshua Tree, Big Bear, and Palm Springs, I would look in the other mountain town in Idyllwild.

Have them start sending you properties to review and I'd plan to take permissive to get eyes on (assuming you have not been stationed in SA before & your command supports travel considering COVID). 

My agent was texting me and the voice commands accidentally wrote "the roof has had leaks" instead of "the roof hasn't had leaks".

My wife and I are both active duty Navy and will be reporting to my command last Friday of this month.

High rents will command higher upgrades and a modern look for prospective tenants willing to pay those rents. 

If you're talking Nora, College Common, or south Carmel I'd command at least $800.