Once you go under contract, (here in Texas) fine a title company that works fast that you can trust, even before the contract is assigned know if they work with wholesalers and how they can help you.

A novice real estate investor. Although I don't have much experience in this field yet, I am passionate about real estate and hope to continuously learn and grow in this industry.

However, I live close-by (30 minute drive), recently retired from my day-job, and if the loan is not too large, I might be willing to do a deal just to learn a bit more about another side of RE.  

It may be worth having an experienced professional helping you and you could always try to get the seller to pay your agent’s fees.

(Assuming it bothers you more than the vacancy and finding a new tenant that pays on time for 3 years. 

I am looking for some help and advice on whether or not this property seems like a smart first investment. 

Is there a more accurate way of assessing this? 

Way to many investors were buying properties for more then they were worth with hopes of collecting MUCH MORE than market rent.

Hugely popular area.Our cabin is doing good, hopefully the calendar will fill in more throughout the year.Although lots of people visit the area there is a lot of competition. 

Hope this helps and hope things resolve soon!