Linoleum counters versus solid surface...Secondly, have you thought about your resale value?  

You can use it as an STR or LTR so rents are more of a win based on options.You want to be able to spread your capital around to more than one big investment especially when your NOI is going to be better on 2-3 versus one!

Is there a list of neighborhoods or areas/area map that you recommend on where to invest versus where not to invest?

Any smart lock that is using wifi (versus bluetooth or Zigbee, Z-Wave, Matter) will eat up a battery.

Banks have to digest low yield loans versus high fed rates.Material supplies are suspect thus housing growth is suspect, which means prices will stay high.What are your thoughts? 

Are there fewer qualifications on second home loans versus rental investment loans?

There's limited STR in Pinehurst; with VRBO and AIRBNB it seems easier for someone to "scout out" what a property is like, versus looking in other rental (longer term) sites.I hope this helps!

For example, a hot water heater is ready to go versus a bathroom you want to upgrade.

Though the current housing market conditions can influence the cost-effectiveness of buying versus building. 

Going to wager dude didn't get them for not paying rent.