The main property will be my primary residence.My biggest question is, what kind of foundation would you use, (that is to code and will pass inspection/permits in Charlottesville) that is either relatively easy DIY or cheap to outsource.

What kind of deal would you "typically" be able to find.

Hey @Mike Pepperday, AirBNB and VRBO are your best bet to see what kind of demand there is for STRs in general.

Having worked in corporate architecture firm for 13 yrs before opening my own firm, I understand your basis @Jay Hinrichs and it's totally accurate.

I have researched the different kinds of loans for this but I would love to speak with any lenders or other investors in this area.

Make sure you already have an exterminator to call though.Also, our lease states that tenant only has 30 days from MoveIn to report pests of any kind.

Thank you kindly. 

To piggyback on Jay's point, generally speaking I think the kind of personalities that are really good at real estate are the opposite of the kind of personalities that are really good at self promotion and presenting. 

This includes converting it to a rental property or refinancing into a different kind of loan. 

So you want to keep a good insight to that and what kind of economic changes that could bring.