Any market can work, you should consider a market that you have some 'competitive advantage' compared to others.Think of an area that you grew up in, went to school, visit friends / family, visit often, best of luck.Also, do you have any experience in rentals / short-term rentals.Air-bnb's hosts have become 'commercialized'.You will not out-perform a host who has years of experience, does this 24/7 and has a team of support.Best of luck.

Can refi an existing mortgage to a shorter term “Mini Mortgage.”Navy Federal 80% LTVNorway Savings Bank, MaineOmaha MortgageOregonians CU - ORPenFed max 3 other properties, including primary. 80% LTV, prime + 1%, <4 properties.

Doesn't seem like it's a great "hold" on the short term but I do think it would appreciate and would increase in cashflow with how you described it and the layout.

I bought a house in Dallas for short-term rental.

Make sure it explicitly explains the process for termination if you are unhappy with their services, especially if they violate the terms of your agreement.3.

In terms of hedging against your bet, you really can't say that by having a lease in place you're protecting yourself any further.

Are there any zoning restrictions in terms of what businesses can operate there? 

Property manager recommends Porcelain Tile (states more durable in long term) over luxury vinyl tile/plank.  

You could always see if he will just seller finance for 30 year term because a promissory note is considered an asset and can be passed down just as a house would be able to.

Together, we negotiated favorable terms with the seller, leveraging our combined expertise to ensure the best possible deal.