During the great recession lenders just didn't have an appetite for commercial. 

Initially the profit was not that much higher on the STR than if it were a LTR and we had periods (including the Great Recession) were we converted back to LTR during the school year and only STR during the summer.Today the STRs are virtually 100% occupied year round and bring in significantly more than they would as LTRs. 

But we are probably nearing a recession so it's important to be careful.

So to harden my portfolio from a severe recession, I use zero debt.

Naturally, a recession hit, just after we moved in and landlord went BK.

Also, at least one of the counties there is going through a county-wide tax reassessment currently, which is going to greatly change some of the tax bills, so keep an eye on that if the Poconos is a consideration.I can't speak to South Florida specifically, but broadly Florida was one of the worst hit markets in the country in the last recession, it might be a consideration to pick up a place down there during the next market bust if you aren't in a hurry.

However, it was not always like this, and I actually graduated from college in the peak of the recession, and I remember like it was yesterday all the growing pains. 

And there most likely isn't in your area, not like in the years after the recession.

Well Cape Cod has NEW ROOF and Windows for plenty of natural light in addition to recessed lighting.

Well Cape Cod has NEW ROOF and Windows for plenty of natural light in addition to recessed lighting.