Generally larger commercial properties and shopping centers are easier to classify with hard and fast rules, but to the points above the residential areas really move very quickly and have way more nuance than most people care to admit.zip codes are generally way too large for my liking at least in my market to provide any kind of insights other than macro level economics but even then highways or rivers that cut through a zip code can end up with totally different trade areas.we can get pretty granular with cellphone data and with grocery center data to understand the trade areas and their true boundaries, but that kind of data pull is generally only cost effective for investors doing larger scale projects or developments, and honestly we still just end up getting on the ground and feeling it out, so I generally tell people that the money is better spent on a plane ticket and weekend trip in the area you are looking rather than any kind of "trade area" level data studies.and generally B class in 1 area means something different than another. 

Would love to hear thoughts from experienced investors—does this approach make sense for a first-time real estate deal?

People like it because you don’t need to own property—just lease it, list it on Airbnb, and make money if guests pay more than your rent and expenses.The catch?

Build a strong team with experienced lenders, real estate agents, and property managers, and educate yourself through books and podcasts.

People have been dropped by insurance companies in wildfire areas and had to scramble to try to find insurance - some using California Fair Plan. 

However, be cautious—newer “B” properties are sometimes built in “C” neighborhoods, so careful due diligence is required.Monroe: As mentioned earlier, Monroe strikes a balance, making it a versatile option for investors.Trends to WatchTransit-Oriented Development: Areas near light rail expansions are seeing significant value increases.Suburban Growth: The suburbs around Charlotte, including areas like Concord, Huntersville, and Monroe, are experiencing steady growth as people seek more affordable housing outside the city center.When investing in Charlotte, aligning your neighborhood choice with your goals is essential.

I was told by a local experienced investor that insurance companies will always go cheap with paying out to contractors in the event a property needs to be rebuilt. 

He made a great point: immigration will offset that decline.Fewer people being born, but potentially more people moving in.

If I'm mentally and emotionally all-in on the incoming administration and think the economy is going to be amazing, best economy with the biggest hands ever, etc etc, then I can do better than gov't bonds, given the emotions I am experiencing.

All this to say they are getting serious about permitting so if you are planning to invest in San Antonio in the short term rental space, MAKE SURE to check that the property is eligible for a short term rental permit given the density limits above and have a Realtor experienced with the San Antonio permitting requirements and rules.