Some, like the last one we got in place, used a drive by estimate of value rather than a full interior appraisal.  

I work with a lot of MTR investors and what I am seeing frequently with multifamily acquisitions, particularly with new investors, is that they often test the property just like you're mentioning, as a way to dip their toes in the water and see what works in their area and for their personal style.

Attitude and professionalism are paramount; product knowledge next, and then there's your contact/follow-up systems.Put that together, price-test against the market, and you'll have a sustainable, constantly expanding, and very profitable venture.Good luck! 

So just kindof testing the waters and getting peoples thoughts.

You'll need to really look at yourself and understand what you do well and enjoy, at the end of the day if you enjoy what you do you'll have more drive be successful everyday. 

I have a close friend who constantly drives up to the white mountains so can definitely understand the draw.

How many weekends do you want to drive up north to find, purchase, setup and maintain an STR?

Driving a car is legal, as long as you follow the rules.

Having watched many prior co-workers get paid, cash their check at the casino, and promptly deposit it all into a slot machine I can tell you with pretty good certainty that casinos don't have a positive effect on disposable income and good use of the existing income in the area surrounding :)Are there solid local employers OTHER than the casino in a 15-minute drive? 

They go into the sad state of the economy and particularly real estate valuations (properties depreciate, not appreciate like we're used to) which is what drives a lot of Japanese investors to the states.