If you can’t quantify risk and don’t understand the mechanics of “weighted” average of expected return and range of returns (standard deviation) then you are at a severe disadvantage and should consider a competent investment / financial manager for your investment capital.  

Either way, you are taking the RIGHT steps, you have the desire; that’s obvious.  

From what I’m seeing, people are still traveling and making plans, especially for vacation rentals in desirable areas.

I just don't have the time or desire to comb through their coursework, and I'm sceptical about the "mentoring" aspect - would happily just pay someone who's got incredibly profitable Airbnbs a flat hourly rate for their tailored advice. 

Expensive and desirable aren't synonymous.

If anything, I believe this will have a tangible effect on inflation, which always makes hard assets more desirable.

There is much to learn: pricing, marketing, screening, contract law, lease enforcement, late/unpaid rent, property abandonment, squatters, maintenance, tenant neglect or abuse, communication, and 417 other things.Buying a decent property but not managing it well can impact your finances, marriage, sanity, physical health, and desire to invest.

@Georgy CherkasskyIf you truly desire to become financially independent you should learn from the experienced, successful posters on this forum instead of “shooting the messenger”.  

You aren't touching anything on the Roaring Fork for almost any price, no matter the square footage.Location is king, because location equals desirability, and desirability translates into more rental demand, and in some cases, substantially more.  

If it is block construction the engineers will make you beef up the slab and add piles to support the new weight of the second floor.