We have properties on the beach that are ideal for destination weddings, and have already had quite a few people find our homes organically and rent for this purpose.

Buying a decent house & doing little to very minor work to it will eventually get you to the same destination as purchasing a turnkey or complete rehab will.So the real question is this. 

That said, it's not my market; I know there are a handful of people on this forum who do have properties in/around Palm Springs, I'd recommend seeking them out and asking for their input.Re: the car, I've considered the viability of doing that (ONLY through a service like Turo) but all my properties are drive-to destinations (and I don't have an extra car) so it's a non-starter for me.  

I am considering building a small "home" (1000-1200sqft) specifically for short term rental in a tourist destination area.  

I was also looking at Destin/Panama City/Ft.

Well, Italian real estate market is an exciting market to invest in, it is an attractive prospect to potential buyers.Excellent weather, beautiful places and landscapes, good food and wine, culture, history, friendly people are reasons why Italy is second to none as a destination for overseas investors.The 3 main reasons for buying a property in Italy are for a vacation home, for a permanent residence for those who are looking to relocate (even for business), for the buy-to-let market.

Well, this is my answer (that I also put in my blog):"Italian real estate market is an exciting market to invest in, it is an attractive prospect to potential buyers.Excellent weather, beautiful places and landscapes, good food and wine, culture, history, friendly people are reasons why Italy is second to none as a destination for overseas investors.The 3 main reasons for buying a property in Italy are for a vacation home, for a permanent residence for those who are looking to relocate (even for business), for the buy-to-let market.

What is the best place you have ever been on vacation or traveled to?

I think it's ilha grande
It's in Rio De Janeiro(State), Angra, Brazil
You can only get there by helicoptor or boat.
There are no motor vehicles al...

I could lose my wallet in the dark alley but I will get to my destination faster.

The car keeps track of when you need to stop and for how long based on your destination, so there is no range anxiety.