Most people I talk to says it is worth it (including me), but others are selling because it is not worth it to them.For our indoor pools it never fails to get a call every few weeks saying the indoor pool is too cold (84 to 86 degrees) and we have to explain this is the industry standard and prevents mold and mildew inside. 

Only after you as a deal maker are clear on the structure, does your army of experts, viz., your legal counsel, accountants, tax experts, etc. arrive at your thought party — to think through the doability and executions.”

I know many people have indoor pools in the Pigeon Forge area and I'm sure many people have outdoor pools in warmer climates also.I put in a Pool Guru device at my house.

While this wasn't a huge money maker, a deal is a deal, especially when you don't have to invest money in renovations.

My niche was looking for areas that were run down but getting ready to gentrify (or so I thought, sometimes it's just a guess or gut feeling :-)Drive around the areas you have selected as possible money-makers and then drive, drive, drive.

Also, as another member pointed out, always put a maintenance spending limit per month per property in writing Anything above that should require owner approval before proceeding, unless it is an emergency type of repair such as repairing a burst pipe indoors or removing a fallen tree limb from an upstairs window. 

HOA's are a tool, and like any tool if used correctly it's a fantastic time save, $-maker and knuckle saver.

Of course you can make RE work anywhere, but if your real goal is to retire within 30 years, using Real Estate as your vehicle.....and if you are serious about this.....then you owe it to yourself to at least consider moving to an area where Real Estate is easier.

I would say doing this strategy though may be a slow process because you are missing out on one of the biggest money makers in real estate which is capital gains.  

While your family member might have some valid concerns, there are definitely ways to address them and make real estate a successful investment strategy.Let's break down your family member's points and explore the counter-arguments:Interest Rates and Appreciation:Yes, mortgage rates are higher than they've been in recent years.