Happy to help out Cosmo, I can tell you a bit more about the area.

As my wife is a realtor, we’ve helped several people from Bigger Pockets find their second home/STR.

Right now, I include a few essentials (bottled water and some snacks), but I want to make it more thoughtful and help set the tone for a great stay.For those of you who offer a welcome basket, what items have you found to be the biggest hit with guests?

We made a proposal to them to help grow in a better area and they accepted the offer. 

Hope this helps!

@Dillon Clark-don't pay extra down on your mortgage-don't use a HELOC-save up as much as you can-hope this helps

Hope that helps! 

Wanted to clarify a few things if that helps. 1.

I live in the Research Traingle areas and has been aggressively investing in real estate here as well as helping my investor clients invest in the region.

I know a lender that can help with both states that does investment lending for very cheap, it would be worth a connection as you look to build out your team no matter what you decide.