I have a solid stockpile of cash to play with.

We are looking to invest near Charlotte NC..In Gastonia and nearby cities.Can you please let us know about the market, if you have experience there?

The other thing I look for is stability of the area-- are the jobs nearby, bus lines, etc?    

@Andrea DosterCheck out the nearby members and network https://www.biggerpockets.com/meet,it will help you a lot to find partners that can help you out in investing.

As far as my goal goes, I want to buy and hold in this specific market as a live-in college rental, 2nd exit strategy airbnb for the nearby sports arena. 3rd sell it off because its a nice area w/ schools. 

Also if they will both be vacant try  targeting multi-generational families,  could be a selling point if they want an older family member nearby.

However, except for maybe a few properties, the rent to house price ratio indeed makes no sense so I'll look around to other nearby areas.Another question I have is, up to what $ amount can you deduct interest and property taxes on rental properties?

Great area that is undergoing big development nearby called the River District which includes a high end apartment complex and restaurants. 3/1 recent remodel (nothing too high end) got me $1200/mo with great renters.

If you’re located nearby, maybe we can meet up sometime.

If you can't find a park nearby, you may want to check with the local mobile home dealerships.