Hi Shelly, I'm here in the Metro Atlanta area working as a agent/investor and I'm familiar all those counties.

I'd rather lose 100 bucks a month in a class A area than make 200 in a class D. 

For certain areas annual pest control may be needed for colder areas maybe you run the risk of freezing pipes.

Quote from @Joy Daniels: I manage short-term rentals in the Sarasota area, and I'm always looking for innovative ways to boost occupancy rates year-round.From your experience, what marketing strategies have had the biggest impact on keeping your properties booked?

I wonder if there is a way to web scrape for when a new realtor is hired or passed exams in the area so that I could hit them up immediately.  

Please message me and I can answer any questions you may have on real estate, local meetups or the local area.  

We’re planning to rent out our fully furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Phoenix-Metro area from March 1st to August 31st in the future.

While short-term rentals in areas like Kissimmee, Florida, can pay for themselves and offer lifestyle benefits, the ROI typically doesn’t match what I see from my traditional portfolio of long-term rentals in North Texas.That said, short-term rentals can still be a great choice, especially if you're drawn to the area and the opportunity to combine personal use with investment income.

There are a number of QIs right here on Bigger Pockets.

Focus on long-term rentals in affordable markets with reliable cash flow, and steer clear of high-cost flips, lower-class properties, or overleveraging in areas that rely solely on appreciation.Good luck!