I understand Vermont has slightly more stringent regulations to contend with but it would also be closer for us geographically and thus potentially easier to manage.

Which areas of metro Atlanta are you targeting?

It kept me booked at 85% which is great and made my life so much easier. 

I'd sure like to borrow his MLS access (if he had it) for easier research though.

If you are in a state where eviction cost is high and it is tenant friendly you may need a higher credit score to offset default risk and eviction cost.If you are in a landlord friendly state where it is easier to get non paying tenants out you may be able to handle more none payment risk.  

I figured calling would be easier, and they said I can't transfer the title or they will call the loan due.

At the end of the day if it is easier for your Tax CPA it will be easier for you. 

I have to choose between a much cheaper market that I live in that is much easier to cash flow, but finding good renters could be more difficult.

Like many in the STR community we has switched our target from STRs to Boutique Hotel investing.

In-town properties are significantly easier to permit but also have some density restrictions.