So all in all it would have taken over 2 months to repair the AC when my tenant is sweating in the 120 degree desert heat and would only cover 200 bucks of a unit that was destined to fail again within the year.In the end not only was I stuck with the cost of a new AC unit, I also had to buy a portable window unit in the meantime, and gave my tenant a free month of rent. 

Looking at properties in your destination does not constitute a "business trip" in the eyes of the IRS.

Imagine if it was in a vacation destination that was all booked up during the busy season.

Destin, FL....

I think this might be of value there as well as it’s a golfing destination ...Many thanks, Jim

I'm debating on the strategy here, but I can't say that Lufkin is a destination that I frequent, so I'm seeking some local insight. 

However, just like @David Cruise said, banks don't like loans that small for Real Estate.

Dora permanently when they retire after loving it at a destination.  

I haven't done a deal yet but have began doing some marketing and have a game plan for when I arrive at my new destination. 

Comparable rents are $3,500-$4,000Do I short-term (Airbnb) due to my close proximity to year round destinations like Disneyland, Beaches, SoCal?