It looks like the majority of people here have offered the opinion of “stay away from NOLA” so you should be asking what other areas are short term friendly to avoid this happening again.There ARE areas that embrace STRs.

If not, then embrace it. 

Embrace the process, and don't rush to get your first property "done with". 

Even if I could attract them, national chains in the core identity area wouldn’t be embraced by the community.

In most markets that can legally have STRs and that the local government embraces, you can get up to 50% more in rental income vs traditional rentals. 

I think it's something beautiful to embrace. :)Good luck to both of you on your REI journey.

But enjoy the process, embrace the grind, it WILL pay off!

As the internet first became usable, criminals were the first to embrace it as well.

One of the books i am reading suggested, for a mentor, therefore, the ppl on social media who are actively doing deals I have embraced them as my mentor, LOL.

It's a necessary tool to move your business and investment into the future in a healthy way and should be embraced when needed.