We have a beach STR & we’ve decided we’d like our next property to be in the mountains.  

You need to add some art or photos that depicts the local nature, local mountains, or something special regionally. 

I also have a Farm and Mountain property and Beach House and Rentals in Brazil.

Securing a rental property is an exciting venture, but gathering the down payment can feel like a mountain to climb.

Probably anywhere there is a vacation market in mountains or hills!

Each individual mountain town also seems to have more strict STR fees than other areas I've looked into.I know you already said you wanted to avoid CO, but just reiterating that it's probably wise to look elsewhere. 

There's great hiking, walking, biking on the Swamp Rabbit Trail up into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

We're looking to build something unique/contemporary with of course elements of the local area (mountain town).

The market I really want to be in, is a small mountain town where inventory is insanely limited.

@Charles PerkinsI am a fan of the slow and steady systematic step by step path to investing success.Many of the gurus say Go Big or Go Home.I say if you are a beginner skier - do you go to the top of the mountain and jump off a cliff going down a black double diamond slope?