My rule of thumb is as long as the cabin is within a 15 minute drive of either the attractions in Gatlinburg or the attractions in Pigeon Forge, you're in good shape, just buy where the best deal is, the rents and occupancy rates are going to be comparable. 

Also, if I do decide to apply for pre-approval with several lenders to compare rates and plans, how long before the pre-approvals expire?

Keep in mind it isn't about comparing the short term numbers among your various options.

The prices seem so great compared to the market in CA, but the cash flow isn't working out with my estimates for taxes, expenses, and rents.

Understand the fees involved and calculate the total cost for an entire year of management so you can compare the different managers.

And she kept at it, even after multiple people called her out.If the forums were overrun with those people, I'd ask myself every five minutes (even at my comparatively diminutive earning ability) why I was wasting my time reading crap.But flaked and formed pig offal masquerading as something it's not is just perfect as a metaphor for get-rich-quick real estate schemes.

this  would assume that your rental income  will be large  enough to  cover all the monthly  expenses  for the home purchased   PLUS  to cover  your present  rent payment  …...you would need  a large rental income  on this property to accomplish this  need  fyi - if you end up buying a  condo -  if your  down payment can be at least 25%  of the purchase  price - your rate/ fee options will be significantly better as  compared to the 80% ltv  options  ….feel free to call or email with any questions regarding seattle as this is where we are located

When you have a deal you can take the opportunity to someone and bring value compared to having nothing and bringing nothing.

Here is one that I developed a few years ago when we used to bid at Florida auctions (Can't get formatting properly):1Property Search & Filter Search properties a minimum of 5 days in advance, valued between $XXK and $XXXK2Review Crime ReportsAvoid high crime and high vacancy areas3Determine ARVMake an informed decision of the Fair Market Value/After Repair Value based on comparables, tax assessment and physical condition4Enter Property Data into SystemRecord ARV, Assessed Value, Sq Ft, No.

A lot of time compared to e-mails, a phone call or chat.