If you are trying to use a primary residence for a hotel, the city would likely want it registered for that use, they may want to inspect it to ensure  ensure its up to code, you may have to you obtain the necessary license, pay necessary fees etc... this isn't some grand new scheme targeted at STR operators, it applies to just about every other business, restaurants, bars, convenient stores, night clubs etc...

I do have a photo of a small restaurant called "Wurst Fuchs" that I kept as a momento, the irony being that was I was there on my honeymoon and it turned out the be more prophecy than a menu.

You can sear it first if you don't mind an extra dirty pan to wash; I don't bother.Add a bit of liquid, maybe an inch in the bottom of the pot: red wine, broth, brandy, water with a Tablespoon of soy sauce, or coffee (yes, coffee).Sprinkle some seasonings on top of everything: onion powder, a clove of fresh garlic, chili powder if you are going Mexican, basil and oregano if you are going Italian, maybe a can of cream of mushroom soup.

It all depends what you mean by viable and what your objectives are.If you want to buy a property for lifestyle that you would use as a vacation home and rent the rest of the time, you should be able to at least cover your costs, provided that you buy the right type of property in the right place and have it properly managed.As a pure investment, I wouldn't expect very high returns and there are definitely better places for that in the broader region like the Mexican beaches, where properties are generally much cheaper and the potential rental income is much higher.

However, like another commenter said, I also believe the area is growing bc there are investments into the nearby areas, increasing stores, restaurants, and apartment units not just the local Metro cities.

I enjoy new restaurants etc....Cleveland / Columbus are great foodie towns!

Finish construction on our 2nd restaurant (franchise) unit by mid-December.2. 

I own a restaurant building that I leased to an restaurant operator who has been an utter nightmare.  

I have worked as a restaurant designer for about 4 years in Toronto and now work as a art director (set design) in the feature film industry.

You just need to take time to learn to cook and you can food better than any restaurant.