This will drive how much you can borrow.Consider More Modest Options FirstWith $200k in investments to deploy, look at starting with 1-2 short-term rental properties first to gain experience before scaling up.Explore markets closer to your mom's current location that may have lower costs but still tourism appeal.This allows you to validate the model and your ability to operate short-term rentals successfully before risking more capital.The short-term rental concept could potentially work, but I would recommend starting with a smaller, very well-researched first step to validate the model before going all-in on a larger endeavor.

I would not rent to them because next they’ll be having sex with animals and and before you know it ,there will be a whole house full of dogs.

Depending on the lending situation you may need to make a larger down payment to satisfy that part of the rule.

Why not pull out the capital you have tied up to have a larger down payment (or even spread it over multiple properties) and maybe even keep some extra money in the bank for reserves and renovations?

Hi, we have a lease that allows dogs as long as they are on a leash at all times when the dog is outside and on the property. 

Risk Tolerance: Commercial real estate often involves larger investments and higher risks, but potentially higher rewards.Expertise and Resources: Commercial properties may require more specialized knowledge in leasing, property management, and market analysis.Market Conditions: Local market dynamics, including vacancy rates, rental trends, and economic forecasts, should influence your decision.Ultimately, both commercial and residential real estate can be profitable investments when approached wisely.

I find that Tampa and Cape Coral are larger markets, but it seems that it is harder to find properties that cash flow.

Do you think the larger homes offer a higher return?  

For example, propose a smaller initial down payment and larger monthly payments, which could free up some capital for the rehab budget.Partner-Investor:While not your preference, finding a partner-investor could be a viable option.

We've been through 6 including the larger names and most of them suck royally.