REI Central and CHS Circle have dedicated facebook pages as well.

etc.Referrals from other local investors, and also referrals from other homeowners in my area on local facebook groups!

You can also check meetup.com or search Facebook for real estate investment groups, clubs, or meetings in your area. 

Good to see someone starting at such an young age.Try to see if you can get hold of a copy of The Millionnaire Real Estate Investor By Papasan and Keller.Also look at Real estate meetups in your area and Facebook GroupsThese help a lot and once you build  your network  I am sure more doors will  open to you

You have come to the right place to begin your investing journey.Have you looked into attending local meetings and joining Facebook groups?

Even facebook might have some good local groups for you.

You can also find real estate investing groups through meetup.com, Facebook, or a Google search.

@Gabriel A Camachoshort answer - no, you don't need to start with a mentor, and you probably shouldn't.some things you can do: go to meetups and join Facebook groups and start making friends and building a network. 

Consider collaborating with local influencers or travel bloggers for exposure.Local partnerships: Connect with local businesses, wedding venues, or event planners for potential referrals.Targeted advertising: Use Facebook/Instagram ads to reach potential guests interested in Smoky Mountain getaways.Seasonality strategy: Adjust your pricing and minimum stay requirements based on local events and peak seasons.Long-term rental mix: Consider mixing in some medium-term rentals (1-3 months) during off-peak seasons for more stable income.Have you tried any of these strategies?

So at a  minimum you need to be firm that the rent is enough to cover your expenses (including insurance, PM fee, capital reserves for repairs)I'd go on Facebook Marketplace and on any Facebook Groups you find for KSU Housing and post it there (at a rent rate this is actually covering your expenses) and see if you get response.