Hi Robin,I do a fair bit of business as a lender in South Carolina; a lot of short-term rental investors tend to focus on the Charleston & Myrtle Beach areas, but if you are looking for properties that are still reasonably priced and don't mind some renovations, Columbia can be a great choice 

They told me that they like to lend to people with solid experience.

I’m basing that more on things like W2’s being issued by a business versus what was reported by the person who received it - but I imagine it extends to all types of transactions.you are flirting with danger though.  

My tenant will be transferring security deposit into my business account.

It is great to have you and please feel free to jump in the community - there are certainly great people around here.

I'm a licensed real estate salesperson and investor who owns some single family houses in an area that attracts people seeking vacation properties, but is not very densely populated. 

We've found it has superior reporting features, integration features, and is overall more efficient to work within than other REI-specific software.The downside is QBO is not set up for REI so you'll need to do that or work with an expert to ensure it is set up for your business appropriately.Something else to keep in mind is your entity structure and how your entities file tax returns.

Ideally, targeting properties conducive to the BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) method can optimize returns, although such opportunities may require thorough market exploration.Should you require further assistance in evaluating potential investments to align with your business strategy, I am available to offer guidance.

Yes, I think you would be fine with your lender, many people move out of a primary and turn into a rental. 

I would love to connect with other people to see how everyone is working in this market!