Tips on other types of lists and how to market to homeowners would be helpful also.

Wishing you the best of success in your market research!

I need someone who is motivated to generate direct bookings, especially since my property is themed, and Airbnb doesn't do a great job of marketing the theme. 

Do you think this is possible to imitate in other markets?

I'm not sure of the local job market etc, but maybe someone who wants to save on rent would pay a couple hundred a month to bring in their camper/RV/Travel Trailer to stay in the area for cheap...that's about it I think.  

Otherwise, our properties are now 100% market rate.Why? 

I have always loved Michigan and am looking to buy a personal property with lots of land over 20 acres that I can visit on weekends. I live in the Chicago land area. However, I am a investor so I am wanting it to pay ...

If you want to network or ask specific questions about your local market, go to your local real estate forum and connect with investors from your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86-local-real-estate-networking5.

Charge them market rent for 2 months and if they overstay, then rent goes up until they leave...though if you plan to use it as a rental, does it matter as long as they are paying their rent.  

Data over the last century shoes REITs have a correlation to stock market returns.