Ask to speak with some of their current owners and current/former tenants.

Would love any input you would have, especially from Canada, but anyone really.I have helped dozens of buyers and sellers in these communities and can speak from both a Realtor and investor perspective, but not an owners view 5.

I am open to Real Estate in any region.I am willing to speak and connect with everyone.

It is not impossible here (have a great gulf front penthouse being listed this week), but generally speaking it is not the way to go in most markets I have ever looked at.

I myself have invested in Cleveland so I can speak on that market.

I also recommend speaking with several insurance companies to confirm you are getting the right answer/price.

@Summer Shelton yes, FHA loans do allow this but make sure you speak with your lender about some of the trip ups from these loans.  

Although I can't speak to the Banner Elk market, I'd be happy to share any insight on just STR investing in general as it related to our experience in Western NC.Good luck!

Which reminds me that I should mention that I’m not opposed to living a not-so-luxurious lifestyle in the short run.

Quote from @Mike Sfera: This depends on the PM that you are speaking with when you reach out.