My partner’s and I are evaluating additional markets (in addition to the Smokies) to developing raw land to build 5-12 cabins (650-1200 sq. ft.) as short-term rentals.

Doesn't make sense what it did to steel and aluminum cased ammo though unless it also had something to do with commodities buyers trying to recoup their increased cost of raw materials.Part of it may simply be due to market demand.

That was in '75, I've learned some things since then with commercial.Looking at raw land means identifying potential use, location, trends and concentrations of business and land usage, public acceptance, governmental constraints, local economy and time constraints.

I've programmed in my own heuristics for some things, others are just derivatives of the raw data (e.g. subdivisions in town T with all houses built after 2000) that you can probably find in MLS searches.

Raw land can be tricky, you need to make sure you study an area to make sure your making the right decision. 

@Jeffrey McKee ,Is this a commercial deal, raw land, a large parcel?  

Something to also consider if raw cash on cash return.

So here is my third letter in a raw which got no response as well:Jim, so you did not handle the grass cutting at my property.

If the price is right, I find (for rentals) if they are doing drive by's and not coming inside or doing showings, something with curb appeal could be awry or a neighboring trashed property could be repelling lookers.You said you bought raw land and developed it, so it may or may not have the amenities of a standard subdivision (sidewalks, streetlights, even pavement, parks etc)..

Seems like lot of raw land in the surrounding area.