My personal DTI is too high.

I would highly just consider getting your RE License and conduct transactions legally and through a broker, it will alleviate all of this mess. 

Plus many hotels in the more nature-y places have non-refundable policies in place anyway and their rates are just as high.

Additionally, my debt-to-income ratio is high.

Zip code 27801 has, according to this article Where N.C. mortgage holders are underwater on their home loans, a state-high 10.9% of home loans considered "seriously underwater", Q1 2024.

Obviously mounted up high in a readily visible spot "trail cams" work just as well (as a possible visual deterrent), very cheap online. 

High construction costs and interest rates?  

Plus, when done correctly, you as the KP can capture the ALL the Fed investment Tax Credits (ITC) plus the  State, MARCS, and Cost Seg Depreciation to massively offset your High W2 / 1099 Income - I wrote a book specifically for people like you and your wife to address your concerns. 

This trend suggests a robust and appreciating market, making Katy, Texas an attractive city for short-term and long-term investment.High Demand for Rentals: Katy is experiencing inbound migration from major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco, indicating a high demand for rental properties.

But fear not, my fellow investors, because these issues are slowly but surely getting better, and with the simple diligence of keeping an eye on those sneaky property taxes, along with the ever-increasing insurance costs, you will do great.Speaking of golden opportunities, the MHC market has become more institutional, meaning more opportunities for those of us with a keen eye for quality investments.