@Stephen FlemingFrom my experience working with over 400 investors, your strategy of leveraging a low mortgage rate, tapping into home equity, and diversifying with a short-term rental (STR) in Northern Michigan is well thought out.

If it goes well, you'll learn a ton and will know what to do next.

I did not want to simply rely on one source so I figured there are people here that would be up-to-date if such a manner was so as well. 

However, a different niche such as insurance placements, might very well be in the 70%~ occupancy level but the rents are going to be so much higher that the occupancy rate (comparatively speaking) is irrelevant.

With future income you pay off that loan as well.

Please let us know if you find a workaround that works well.

I have his cell as well. 

You really need to know your numbers well and build in some good cushion.Tools I use to evaluate rentals and loans.  1.

Market is continuously stable and rents well.

Any suggestions or advise on HELOC’s are greatly appreciated as well.