I like to think in terms of cash on cash ROI, since it is a way to compare to other investment options such as stocks.

So, the big question is, "Where is the next Pigeon Forge going to be", in terms of STR success AND potential for price appreciation? 

example intrigues me, do you have any info in terms of areas that are good in terms of SFHs there?

Now in terms of our next home, we would love your help!

The money is from multiple people who have said they are interested in investing once I get going.I have great credit and my current debt service payments are ~9% of my gross monthly income.I've completed college within the past 3 years and never purchased a house or property before so I am unsure what that would qualify me for in terms of other aid.

I often think about the saying 'Pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered' in terms of business and real estate.

In terms of opportunity, I could keep the house and expect $2000/mo rent or I could sell it and use the $300k as a deposit on a $1M multifamily commercial property, which would probably have $6000-$10000/mo rents.

Auburn you should take a look at Walnut Hills which has for some time now been considered the next OTR, (strictly in terms of the amount of development and growth) Covington, Main Strauss, and Roebling Point have also seen recent growth and are very attractive for cash flow investors considering  Kentucky's lower taxes.    

Still, I'd definitely check out the Memphis Market.Also, in terms of when to buy on the dip, it occurred to me that historical data might offer some clues. 

Quite frankly, stopping companies from scanning my credit report for pre-approvals was not a priority in terms of impacting my score positively which has been my main priority.