I would say that the first thing you need to do is set up you long term goal and final destination for investing. from there you create your strategy to achieve that (Buy and hold, flip, wholesale, Note buying etc) from that you can determine what tactic ( SFR, MFR, Mobile homes, Condo, Townhomes, Short term rental) will be.

There is no "destination" when you get into something like this, it's just one continuous journey and adventure for those who choose to enjoy it!

This property is about 1.5 hours from me, so my plan is to use it for learning over the next 6 months or so, while generating some income, and hopefully once I've learned more, and automated everything possible, I want to get my next STR somewhere further from me in a vacation destination that will generate a lot more income than what I'm expecting from this current property.

Hello Bigger Pockets, I am interested in learning about everyones experiences with owning and operating seasonal rental properties in vacation / destination markets.

Hello Bigger Pockets, I am interested in learning about everyones experiences with owning and operating seasonal rental properties in vacation / destination markets.

All other types of STRs have not done well including those in urban areas (ie densely populated), fly to destinations (ie not many are flying) and those that rely on huge events (ie huge crowds) for demand.

They focus on Pigeon Forge/Gattlinburg TN, Gulf Shores AL, and Destin FL markets so if those interest you you can schedule a consultation.  

I believe this article continues to reinforce that Huntsville is a great choice for investors. https://huntsvillebusinessjour...
Huntsville was the city with the fourth-highest percentage of inbound migration with 7...

The goal has to have a finite destination and time limit on it.For example you may say your goal is 20 houses in 20 years (paid off) earning $20,000 per month.. (20,20,20 goal).Now you know where you're going and the timeframe for this to happen.

Several reasons for this.There is an abundance of inventory available for prices far below what you can build a new property for.Tiny houses are going to dramatically reduce your pool of interested buyers and tenants.Short term rentals work best in vacation destinations with a lot of tourism.