@Brandon Boyce Good to hear that you guys do your due diligence on local regulations.

I understand that you want to look for a place with year round tourism, growing tourism stats, favorable STR regulations, etc.

This is going to be unpopular with the STR crowd but I would absolutely NOT invest in the traditional vacation markets today.If you're hell-bent on going the STR route, find a metro area that has lax or no regulations currently. 

I think my position is a bit more complex than your average investor since:1) I am brand new and have been shopping for a good CPA to no avail for a month.2) I need to shelter risky assets as best as possible (which may include anonymity)3) I am looking to aggressively expand over the next 12 months into different states for short-term rentals, which have volatile regulations.4) My expected income for 2018 has a very wide band thus leaving room for the need for constant advice and dynamic planningThanks so much for any thoughts.

I was wondering what you, as local landlords , have done or know about these rules and regulations?

that any hazardous materials be dealt with legally and in compliance with all state and federal regulations. 

Desert Hot Springs has new rules and regulations as well.

While Section 8 rentals offer stable income, be prepared for additional regulations and inspections, and thoroughly research program guidelines.

Also 4th quarter of last year Packwood and county officially did discuss potentially regulating STR's by either limiting numbers or adding a tax to cover increases in local services that are needed.

You're right; AirBnB is in a precarious state around the country writ large with tightening local regulations.