If you are looking for the most flexibility, I would consider searching for homes with no HOA in these Scottsdale zip codes:85257, 85250, 85251All of these would be close to the action of Old Town Scottsdale, seasonal sporting events, ASU events, golf and hiking and all the things that draw people to Scottsdale.I highlight these 3 zip codes because HOAs are rare here and you will find remodeled or in-need-of-remodeling homes, depending on your strategy and budget.Most investors consider a swimming pool a must since people come here for the sun and fun.Check out Scottsdale listings on Airbnb to see which ones have the most bookings and charge the highest rates to see what's working best.

Lots of people visit for conventions, sports, music, and various get togethers (more so post covid but still maintained pretty solid presence during 2020 all things considered).

If you want to go far in Real Estate, it's a team sport.

(That is my husband's new favorite sport.

You did well with the appreciation gamble. 

I could have  bought a 2 or 3 million dollar building made 100 k net a year instead of spending it .. but never have a potential 30 mil upside.. so yes speculation and gambling thats what we do.. but we also use our noggin to buy the right properties.. not just some rental house and hope for the best.

It's also the reason that investing in rentals does not make financial sense in Seattle unless gambling on appreciation.Lubbock seems to look worse every time I visit because there are few incentives to fix up older properties.

I own a STR management company, and it is definitely a contact sport!

Plus there are colleges around here, STR attractions, growing population and jobs, sports teams, etc.

Growing your network and Agent business is definitely a contact sport.