Condos are a better bet since they usually give you more freedom to rent and are easier to sell.

Data point: we have a long-term rental in a popular STR neighborhood listed through Zillow right now.Every person who writes asking to do some sort of arbitrage is blocked by the Zillow platform.I don't even have to say "no thank you anymore."  

I bet, when you started investing,  this day seemed so far off it was silly.

Quote from @Brett Jurgens: @Jay HurstThanks for responding3.75%, 30yr fixedLike others have said, with that interest rate your best bet is probably to do a home equity line of credit (HELOC) to put towards an investment that you can quickly recoup your initial investment on.

But I wouldn't be surprised to see us settle in the low 6.00% range.I have some aggressive bets in stocks and long duration bonds that will benefit if/when that happens.

That’s the best bet.

It is growing in popularity because of proximity to Charlotte (about 45 min drive) and Lake Norman but still has a small town feel.

ThanksI bet that's a good short term rental market!

Your best bet is probably to get your real estate license and start actively being a real estate professional or buy a STR in your market that you can physically be at on a regular basis. 

@Gary Bonds the only way you'll bet a business loan as a newbie, is by cosigning for your business.You'd be better off getting a business credit card you personally cosign for to start establishing business credit.