Effects of COVID on the market definitely need to be considered, but if it's a thriving university town I wouldn't worry about the fact that some people may be wary of sharing a bathroom turn you away from an otherwise good buy.

Queen Creek is thriving with new restaurants, shopping and parks.

I can't imagine having to do what you did; moving, starting your business again and not only surviving but thriving.

So they have taught him how to purchase and thrive in a very aggressive market. 

I have nothing against you and hope your business thrives.

The STR market is thriving in the SoCal mountain towns and many who are able to work from home permanently are flocking to the mountains.

But for those that stick to it and make it work and then thrive those are the 10% like any business that rise to the top.

Since you want input from those who survived a recession, I'll tell you that I thrived during the last recession. 

You will work, you will grind you will be 'all in' and you will either fail or thrive.   

I'm much out of my comfort zone asking a question on this thread (I'm super super new, especially compared to all those here with big, thriving businesses!)