@Jemini LeckieIf your state is popular enough then why not invest in a townhome? 

Not a popular opinion but cash flow won’t make you rich.  

., mortgage interest, taxes, repairs, depreciation) on Schedule E starting when the property is placed in service.

My former experience has been with LTR and I'm currently focused on STR in E TN but interested in learning other useful strategies and expanding markets in later deals. 

Prices remain relatively low, but appreciation may be slower.Monroe: A mix of cash flow and appreciation potential, Monroe has become a popular choice for investors, especially in areas where new developments are popping up.Appreciation-Focused NeighborhoodsBallantyne: A well-established area with high demand, Ballantyne offers excellent long-term appreciation potential, though cash flow opportunities may be limited.South End: A booming urban hub with a vibrant retail and restaurant scene.

First, I’m not really seeing enough cushion in certain popular areas for investors to realistically hit a 30% profit margin.

Our downtown isn't big, but each neighborhood has a different feel, and we have affordable suburbs if you want to be close but not IN the popular areas.

It is in a perfect location (off the square) in a very popular tourist town outside Austin, Texas. 

Quote from @Colin E O'Connell: The BP meetup in Wilmington is tomorrow 1/7 at 5:00 at Mad Mole Brewing.

It remains a popular destination and has seen steady growth.