My firm handles real estate and estate planning matters and we are located in the northwest suburbs. 

Brian, I did have a pro membership on here but just downgraded because I wasn't seeing any value for the pro membership - I did see where you could post deals but they were all jumbled up with different locations and it just didn't seem to be all that user friendly.

This is obviously location and property specific, but we're working with partial numbers so far...let's assume you'd want to stay in the cabin on vacation:)  If we find a place for $300k with 25% down at 5% interest, conduct $50k of value-add rehab...renting it 12 weeks/year breaks the project even on a cash-flow basis incorporating all costs.  

Here is a breakdown of the issue:Property/Land is in the Alpharetta/Johns Creek area in Georgia, an affluent suburb located in Fulton County.The city is a northeastern suburbs of Atlanta.According to Money magazine, Johns Creek is the 13th highest-earning city in the United States.

Here is a breakdown of the issue:Property/Land is in the Alpharetta/Johns Creek area in Georgia, an affluent suburb located in Fulton County.The city is a northeastern suburbs of Atlanta.According to Money magazine, Johns Creek is the 13th highest-earning city in the United States.

Both have great rental histories, are located in very good neighborhoods and very low vacancy.  

Your location will play a part in making that decision.  

His biggest complaint was the amount of time it takes to get paid.Since you will do lots of traveling, you should keep your eye open for abandoned properties  (driving for dollars while doing your day job) and perhaps you can locate a deal.

I have 12 years experience in the construction industry building, remodeling and rehabilitating homes around my current location.

I'm also located in Glen Ellyn, IL - I lived here with my wife and daughter for the past six years.