Regarding your second question, are you asking if those activities help meet the IRS material participation tests or qualify you as a real estate professional?

I'm not talking about saving for savings sake, but actively considering how a dollar can reproduce itself so that you can not only have whatever it is you want to buy, but also put more of the reproductions to work making more dollars and still have the original dollar.

I wanted to briefly re-introduce myself (I’m committing to get more active in BP again!) 

Occupancy can be off the charts in places like this because there is so much activity or reasons for people to visit during what would be slow days of the week and off season months. 

My total expense ratio on each property I own ranges anywhere from 40%-50% annually, but I also self-manage and am not a slumlord (I am pro-active with maintenance, not reactive).

I might get some activities out of time sequence. 

I do know, however, that they are pretty strict about the STR activity in the area. 

I currently am an active investor in the Reading area and I can tell you it’s definitely a good area to start off with.

I don't beleive this is true based on the IRS site stating you don't have to issue a 1099 if you are "not engaged in a trade or business."  

I really appreciate the suggestion to engage local RE investment groups with this question which I plan to do.