Given the relatively slow population growth in the Midwest, do you see potential for long-term appreciation in the region?

Many investors have had to get creative by emphasizing other property perks, like pools, proximity to local attractions, or unique experiences, to offset any beach access challenges. 

.- Books:  We have a mix of books including some local area/regional stuff, some fiction, and kids books.- Kids Toys:  We advertise to families and have another 2xKallax cubes full of toys that won't break and are tolerant of missing pieces, but are easy enough to cleanup:  lincoln logs, blocks, hard animals, stuff like that.   

I have three listings, 1. unit with a pool and hot tub, 2. unit with a hot tub, 3. both units together as a 12 sleeper.Gross monthly income (after booking channel fees) for the first unit over a 7 month period was $7309.Gross monthly income for both units over a 14 month period is $11,297 (after booking channel fees) As a long term rental the combined rent would be in the region of $5500.Is it possible to sell the property based on the income generated by the STR business or would the value always be based on bricks and mortar comps? 

Would real estate prices in certain regions rise rapidly due to demand from both local and international buyers? 

The shaded regions represent periods of QE (QE1, QE2, and QE3), during which interest rates generally declined or remained low.

Places with strong population and job growth (think the Sunbelt regions or emerging Midwestern cities) can offer solid cash flow and long-term appreciation. 

That seems to be extremely unique in today's environment.But if you're looking for more tenant stability, some of the options you listed might be a better fit. and don't see it talked about a ton here (that may be a good thing)

The model you should go with will ultimately depend on what the group is optimizing for (cashflow, appreciation, tax optimizations, diversification, and maybe even a little bit of social value doing something fun, potentially lucrative, and unique w friends).  

Do just want to reiterate that this will be very regional!