I am not in North Carolina, but I am in 11 other markets and would be happy to chat to answer any questions.

I'd love to help anyone break into the Huntsville Market! 

My advice would be go for the most they will loan you as long as you're in an appreciating market and you can find a value-add.

Until the lease ends and then the legal notice time in your market has passed.

Quote from @Marc Zak: In the market where I live (San Diego), appreciation has been strong and many predict it will continue to appreciate in the long term.However, with current interest rates (6% at best) and property tax (2%), the annual cost burden is 8%.Am I correct in saying that appreciation has to be above 8% annually (plus whatever my maintenance and vacancy costs are) for me to make any money in this scenario if the property is cash flow neutral?

For example,  if no one else bids on the property or it stays on the market longer than the bid window and they do not accept an offer?

Hey All, I'll be traveling to Costa Rica for a wedding and wanted to explore the market while I'm visiting.

I have a friend/neighbor that wants to sell me his house below market value so he can move back into an apartment and travel.

Alas, this scenario didn't last very long, as you would expect in a free market capitalist society -- new money flood in, more STRs in supply, property prices increase, STR incomes decrease, until a new equilibrium is achieved.Nowadays, the word STR is being used to describe both the property and the business.

This is such an easy way to stand out against the competition in your market.