I don't like to gamble on rent appreciation.

Yes been thinking a while about what to do after selling property:1. just pay the tax and paying off debt as you said2. 1031 DST with lower return "slightly higher risk" investment3. or QoZ funds where it's the riskiest investment/10 year money out with the investment into developmental phase/cycle location (hence lot of gambling) at the worst of time.It's win-win-win situation for uncle Sam :)

I’m more a fan of Boone rather than Asheville (in NC speak) - the smaller, more authentic mountain experience rather than the touristy mountain regions.

I think it's a gamble for someone 2000 miles away - could do well or badly.  

@LaTonya Clark “One  can’t tell but I do know part of me is willing to take a chance”…You make it sound as if real estate investing is no different than gambling….

They gambled, and lost.

this is only a good idea if you have reason to believe that the area will be appreciating quickly, which is called speculation and akin to gambling not investing. me personally, I would rather put my money on black than bank on market appreciation. negative cash flow rentals are a time suck and money suck.

It's a gamble either way.

I agree that is will be a gamble as to how well it will do.Also, ask the owner if they will entertain partial owner financing to keep from dragging family and friends into this risky business venture.Maybe even rent from owner for a year with right to sublease to see how it goes before committing to a purchase.

Be authentic and take an interest in them.