I'm looking for recommendations based on your experience with insurance companies that cover STRs in this area or other mountain markets that are comparable. 

I've been toying with the idea of doing some FaceBook marketing but haven't had a chance to really dig into it yet.  

If anyone will do this, it will likely be a small local bank or credit union that you have a banking relationship with.

I've read Michael Blank's book: Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing and have started to do some research on markets I want to invest in. 

In the competitive world of real estate investing, finding tough markets with great upside gives you an instant edge over the competition.

He put it the market and the real estate agent advised him to add a closet to what had actually been a bonus addition to the two bedroom one bath house. 12 years old at the time my father asked me to give it a try.

I've been educating myself through books and podcasts on topics like sourcing off-market deals, deal and property analysis, creative financing, and title reviews.My fiancé is an architect that works with GC's and structural engineers to design homes ensuring they are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and safe- which I hope will help me navigate this space as I grow my knowledge.

I recommend starting by tuning in to the BiggerPockets Podcast and attend your local REI meetups to build up a strong network.

I would recommend going to local real estate meet ups, and talking with investors who buy locally and out of state.

The problem here is it takes 6-8 weeks to close, and in the LA competitive market, that is too long to be competitive with other bids.