BP has just become a lot more popular and with that popularity comes more ne'er-do-wells. 

I am located in Venice, Florida and I'm in an area where vacation rentals are a popular choice.

The cosmetic choices would be based on popular preferences that would appeal to hopefully everyone. 

I would encourage you to check out some of my posts on Market Data in NC, I have some of the most popular areas in NC broken down in easy to digest data.

Areas like Central West End, Soulard, and The Hill are popular and have strong rental demand.Property Management: If you plan to rent out the property, consider hiring a property management company, especially if you’re not planning to live there full-time.Market Trends: Stay updated on local market trends, such as employment rates, population growth, and development projects that could impact property values.St.

You'll want to understand what kind or notices and documents you need to get executed to either up their rent or turn the unit.Solid long term tenants are worth their weight in gold in my book so if theres a way to up the rent and keep them happy I's say thats the best route personally.

Surprised Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg is not on this list.Places like Joshua Tree are popular but also very saturated. 

Another idea is talk to title companies to see who's the most popular real estate agent and buyer who comes into their office all the time.

Does this guidance carry any weight? 

As for the HELOC, the more I research the more it matches your comment regarding using it for home improvements / flips so I may sit on that for a little bit until I educate myself further on those topics.As for raising capital, I have read the private lenders are a popular way and hard money loans which I do not fully understand yet.