Many of them won't be convinced by facts, such as how much revenue STR's facilitate in and around Asheville, and will continue to push debunked sentiments about affordable housing, but the threat of lawsuits might make them play nicer.

Columbus is going to be more of an appreciation play and cash flow margins will be tighter in the beginning. 

I would not try and play in the gray on this one - keeo your marketing out of those areas.

In playing with the numbers a bit, I'm seeing a trend of atleast 2% rent to price and (ideally) < 7% mortgage rate needed to achieve a decent cash on cash rate.

I am also curious about when/how an attorney/legal involvement comes into play with this.

This platform has played such a key role in my journey over the years.

Long term play would be to either use it as a short term rental or 1031 exchange it after 2+ years.

So it can be good for cash flow and building in tighter spaces but it is less of a equity play in today's market if you're looking to sell right away

I do think house hacking and small multifamily are the best plays at the moment. 

You don't want to start playing sides here and getting involved in these kinds of debates.