In general, I'd recommend getting your first property as close to you as possible.

Based on my analysis, the recommended Purchase price is coming up way lower than the asking price.

If you don't have it, I recommend working with a broker who knows where to place your loan.

I used to have a 6/2 on Ohio State university campus north of downtown columbus and I got 1600 a weekend and netted 2500 a month probably. a lot of days were vacant but we did really well all the time for huge groups which is a nice I still recommend and there's not a lot. we just sold a new build for a medium term rental in newark close to intel. there's demand for high quality, well furnished places. 

As an investor, I've been looking for that area on the North Coast and in conclusion needs more time to be developed ( so there is no guarantee you will have a good ROI due the location )You don't have the same appreciation to get equity and the ROI is not the same there is a reason why is cheaper than other areas. also, the cheapest areas are not the best for us as investors I am not saying that has to be expensive but has to be in balance do you have diligence in analyzing some deals I recommend Santos Domingo for short/long term rentals Punta Cana and Bayahibe too for now 

Anyone have recommendations for developers that work near/around Big Bend National Park?

I don't personally recommend saving for investments, which takes forever, rather learning how to raise capital to acquire investments.

Are there any tools that you recommend?

I am looking for a recommendation of a contractor.

Carlos mentions that you can also exploit seasonality to get comparable profits like this, and recommends some ranges to seek remodels in (thank you for sharing those!).