Tampa for example, the most desirable STR's are also very desirable to owner occupants (near beaches, near downtown, etc). 

Changing Preferences for People’s Desire to Live in the Metro AreaThis is likely due to the newfound appreciation for these types of community and experiential activities from the inability to access them during the Pandemic, as well as the lack of need to be near transactional retail stores with consumers now being accustomed to doing a lot of their shopping online.

They simply did not desire to spend more time than it was worth to recover the money from Airbnb.

Purchase price: $295,000 Cash invested: $50,000 Single fam home, desirable neighborhood.

That also plays a major role in what to do. end of day stocks and real estate over time provide the same return on average - so it is really based on the individual, their experience and desire Thank you. 

Also make sure to build on a property located in a desirable location with larger pop density and if holding for rentals, charge median rent for that market as lenders want to see a bigger pool of buyers/renters available to occupy/sell. 

It seems you and your husband have the ability to make a property more desirable and I would try to stay local for the same reasons you listed. 

(Starbucks / yoga studio / craft brewery /boutique cookie,coffe or ice cream shop  are the easiest targets)-Activation of dormant retail sites-Increased foot traffic For B to AAbove also apply-Home valuations (are homes in the increasing at rates above nearby or similar neighborhoods)-Is it walkable or are projects in place to make it highly walkable for residents-Is it near highly desirable activity centers -is it unique (for example - Can it get historic designation)

Many desirable neighborhoods that offer a consistent predictable return on investment.  

If the desired zoning is next to your property, it is easier to get rezoned.