Two factors at play here.1) STRs generally appraise as residential homes, not as businesses based on multiples. 

Having good schools played huge part in the properties we purchased.  

And that was my understanding (the basics, at least :-)...Given that, the scenario that Bob presented in Deal 3 above seems unlikely to play out legally...

Factors like real estate trends, property taxes, and competition also play a role.

Maybe play dumb a little "I don't know if I'm in the right place..."

To me, the best play out there right now is to go with the smaller cabins. 

Mark my words though the 2020-decade will be as transformational, transitional, and pivotal as the 1940s.Bottom line--appreciation is where the money is made, consider cash flow a defensive play and way end of the chain of the reasons to invest in physical RE.

As for the owner portal, it works but I really haven't played with it too much from an owner's standpoint, so I'm not as familiar with what all it does and doesn't provide as I should be.

Just play roulette and bet it all on black bro.

House may continue to appreciate.Cons: Not sure how the revenue plays against social security, Medicare & taxes.