Regarding #2, we would be looking at beachfront areas in higher traffic vacation areas (Hawaii).

If you enjoy the hands-on work, keep in mind that managing as a GC might pull you away from that.

For instance, a duplex can offer more consistent income since if one tenant vacates, you still have another paying rent.

Congrats - would you ever buy in this market for pure investment purposes or do you think its mostly just a good market for a owner-use vacation home?

Pleasant area of Cleveland in 44120, and had some decent tenants that are vacating the property.

I am new to this forum and after enjoying scrolling through tips can anyone help me with a constant problem.

If you've enjoyed a lot of appreciation in the value of your primary home, you may want to start a timer to sell before losing the "lived in the house for 2 of the last 5 years" capital gains exemption (limited; not infinite, but big).  

Are you looking to live in the GA home full time or just use it as a vacation home?

Unless it is specifically for vacation and rentals is part of the whole thing, then avoid.

If they take an extra four days to vacate, that's $800 in holdover charges.