The Basics: I've been watching the micro-climate that is San Diego's short-term vacation rental market since I moved there in 2015.

This is very nice in cold climates so you don't end up with frozen pipes and other damage. 

Any thoughts on vacation properties with the current economic climate?

I look for properties that are:1- near major places of employment that is relevant to todays business climate 2- Close to Hospitals 3- Close to Universities 4- Close to Transportation (Major Hwys, bus, train and ferry services).

Google the company name Climate Smith, you would see his contact info there.

I don't buy your line that "lots of landlords aren't interested in renting to people who foreclosed", especially in todays climate, where the landlords understand the situation, & imo, are benefitting from it!

If that balance is misaligned, then you would have issue no matter the market climate.

I am in the north east Pittsburgh market. it may be different in warmer climates or where school years dont start in September and end in June.

This is an unspoken risk of climate change as these events become larger and more costly.  

I would only do short turn around SFR flip and watch out for changing housing climate with Washington DC on edge and drama.