My advice is dont put so much down and instead buy a Primary and an investment rental all in one step.May sound crazy moving into a new state and also buying a rental but your already way a head of most investors. 

Looks like Tim and Ezekiel have provided a bunch already...What are costs associated with snow/harsh winters?

Just looking to sell in the near future and trying to wrap my head around what a potential STR buyer will expect.

We went completely distributed and virtual from the jump because I believe that's where professional services is headed in the next 10+ years.  

However, after seeing what we could offer in terms of amenities, location and service, they happily paid the premium rent associated with renting from us.I am not a natural salesman, but reading books on marketing, sales and hospitality has greatly improved my ability to convert a lead.

But a heads up...the best financing on these types of properties is seller/owner financing.

I think you hit the nail on the head when you said "...and I think it helps prevent problems when they understand the myriad issues involved in its use."

I am very involved in our local real estate investor association and agree that in this central Florida market there are an over saturation of STRs as well.

Take a look a look at the RPAWi. org, which is our local non-profit landlord association located in Milwaukee.

Thanks for the heads up I didn't see those other posts.