Eventually we would like to fix up the short term rental in the Smokies as well, thinking that we could do this for approx. $5000. 

Far too many get stuck in the "paralysis by analysis" stage, thinking they just don't know enough to get started.

Your thinking must align with the travelers, and often experienced-based thinking will take you much further than value based.So, let's say you are looking to enter the STR market and don't know what to look for in a winning home. 

@John Boutros The only think that comes to mind is private lenders or trying to find small, local banks and credit unions who are willing to lend.

I think if you had a dedicated bathroom for each bedroom this wouldn't be a big deal but sharing a bathroom space with a stranger would be awkward to me. 

Do you want to strategically place your spotlights were you would think people would have their couch, TV, kitchen cabinets, and other strategic places throughout the property.

Right now, I am thinking of turnkey out-of-state if the market continues at this pace because property taxes are so high in El Paso and rent growth has not increased with prices. 

Selling I save 30k on the Reno budget resting in a 107k sale.What you guys think Keep a fully renovate home for 66k in a C+/B- area or sell for 107k for the next deal?

i genuinely think it's a very tough time to get started in real estate. 

At the time, I was married, thinking we’d have more kids, and maybe move my dad in as he ages.Well since then, I’ve gotten divorced, decided I’m one and done on kids, and switched jobs to have a longer commute.