I bought a 2/2 brick ranch in decatur to pop out 2 mo ago and am shocked (even given my experience) at the delays for survey;  8 weeks,  architect;  6-12 mo;  Framers;  12 mo,  blablabla.   

If your assumptions for path 1 was to do a long-term rental, you may be pleasantly surprised.Another item to consider is that by doing a short/mid-term rental on your current place, you will gain the experience necessary before jumping into an STR in a mountain resort town.

I moved to Charleston Mount Pleasant area in 2017.

I was Shocked at first but now that I think about it more, it all makes since. 

@Carl Davis and @Craedon Spencer, I would love to meet both of you guys.My office is in Pleasant Grove, we should meet up around the Point of the Mountain sometime soon.

If someone has already done the heavy lifting (air sealed, insulated, updated electrical), you will be pleasantly surprised; if not, you will be adequately prepared.  

I was shocked at the bill, and the utility company said they suspect the furnace has been run very hot and often to create this kind of number.

We had been following a house in a very nice part of Mt Pleasant for 4-5 months as the price declined from $800,000 to $695,000. 

You'd be shocked how fast you can build a list of rough houses driving for $$ then door knocking those doors. 

It would act as an additional deterrent for those of whom are sticker shocked by increased rent and wouldn't dare to acquire that increase.