I want to remain local in NJ or at most drive down 1hr to PA (self-manage or, last resort, hire a PM)However, I must also consider maintaining reserves, a safety net for my primary home, and an emergency fund.It's just hard for a new investor now :(

Hi @Ashley MillerBanner Elk is a great place for STR due to the busy summer season, ski season, and fall leaf color season.

It's a good market with year-round demand that peaks in both winter (ski season) and summer (beach / lake / hiking / etc) season. 

You have to find the areas that are either zoned for Hotel and Resort or have NUCs (non-conforming use) certificates. 

Additionally, it’s perfectly located with close proximity to both the ski slopes and downtownI received an email directly from the seller saying: 'I have changed my mind about the sale of my home and would like to terminate the contract.'

Winter can still do well but we are not quite close enough for any ski mountains. 

I have resorted to downloading ALL my leads to a spreadsheet for tracking.

After some research, the two areas that interest us are Vermont (probably near a ski area, Killington or Stowe) and the Smoky Mountain area. 

Today's lesson: why I won't use VRBO Pre-Approval anymore.I get inquiries from time to time asking things like- is your place truly ski in/ski out?

S8 is the business of last resort.