One thing you might want to consider is partnering with microsoft and adding a third party app to their office 365 suite of products as they have an accounting arm and many other applications already in play that you could add on just for property management and it would work on their system to integrate everything.

I'd recommend working with a mortgage broker as they have access to many different types of lenders with various loan programs that could be best suited for you.

Without a hot tub, or a swimming pool, or a back yard patio you aren’t offering anything but a place to sleep.

ARM—what suits your long-term goals?

My goal is to find a property that suits her needs while also serving as a strong long-term investment.

All through my business portfolio that I created on my meta-business suite that they manage and help create the proper way.

Would a property like this be better suited for long-term or short-term rentals in your experience?

FWIW, I am one of those investors that are looking for folks overleveraged on properties north of $1.5MM in the Smokies and I'll come with a bid that suits me here later this year once I get some family obligations off my chest.

The investors and first time buyers who swim and make sacrifices will get it done regardless of strategy. 

You lived for free for 3 years, you should be swimming in money.