As such, I'd look for private money/bringing in a partner (ideally someone who is more experienced) to help fix and flip.

I am trying to improve mine though, because it is ideal to get your properties into a stable, long term loan.

Ideally we'd find a property between Minneapolis and Birchwood that we could use while visiting and STR otherwise. 

Game rooms and movie rooms are standard on bigger cabins.

The benefits of ownership are HUGE  I just want to say I really really really like this answer.So when I deal with such-and-such "financial advisors", usually I dig up their past thru linked In or social media or any other stuff to check their credibility.

One of the challenges you'll face as well is the car aspect - going to view the property or running in to any maintenance issues so would ideally need a 1) a real estate agent who works primarily in these areas who knows what you are looking for and can do viewings for you and 2) property management company or a good reliable relationship with a handyman.

Would love to jump on a call ideally.

I want to be as confident as possible that a well-managed STR in my location will be able to at least break even (covering mortgage/taxes/expenses) and ideally provide a profitable cash flow.

@Shelia Stokes, an experienced coach/mentor should ideally have an established business that grows and performs year after year.

@Jack Seiden, we'd ideally like to rent the entire property rather than room by room, so perhaps a Condo or TH makes more sense?