You have to value your time, leverage your skills, and execute a long or short term play. 

Achieving a great cashflowing property, learning the process while executing, and great satisfaction of helping a family.

As a resident (who travels a lot) I would say the Midwest does not have the attractions like palm trees & beaches (the great lakes are cold) or amazing mountain ranges, which often come with some disadvantages like high cost of living or hut/humid weather, stroms etc. 

Why would anyone start the purchase of a property, having zero idea if they can actually execute their business plan? 

I have clients who invest in the SDSU area to students, nearly zero vacancy, because of the demand, proximity to campus and quickly executed turnovers. 

The result is we have supervisors and executives we can reach out to assist us if a property is truly being ignored by a case manager.Is it work?

I think younger travelers and groups with younger guests find this more appealing.

Considering traveling nurses/workers, as well as seasonal rental for ND home games (also a huge Fighting Irish family).

If you get a quote significantly below the numbers above you need to ensure that the contractor will actually execute the work and perform it to the required standard. 

Short-term rentals can be a great starting point, especially in markets with high tourism or business travel.