I focus on long term appreciation plays. 

That’s what Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans are used for.

Quote from @Chidvi Pemula: I avoid smart devices, particularly on short-term rentals.

Primarily I'm looking to get into fix and flips then move into long term rentals.

There's a lot of research you could do on VRBO/AirBNB/AirDNA to compare similar properties in terms of rates and occupancy, but my experience is that Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are more popular because of the nearby amenities, nightlight, recreation, and other things to do. 

Is everyone on the same page with the long-term goal?

I am a small real estate investor in San Antonio, TX looking to diversify my portfolio with some long-term units in Ohio.

If rates fall, you can refinance the 2nd without touching the 1st lien.I wouldn't plan for long-term financing with the Heloc as the draw period will term out at some point.

We have a single-family long-term rental in Port Charlotte that we'd like to keep the current mortgage rate, but we do have some equity we'd like to have access to. 

Just out of curiousity why would someone choose this model over a short term rental that is isolated by itself (privacy) or a hotel?