I’m currently working on a flip in central/western PA in a rural area. 

Especially for STR, you could literally put a sofa bed in the living room and accommodate extra guests (before you all scream, this is fairly common even in high end STRs and I've never heard of complaints, but feel free to cite other experiences).

I've spent a lot of time researching rental properties and was comfortable with that strategy, but since nothing pencils and I'm pivoting a bit at least to get started, I feel like I'm starting over before I even began. 

Hope this all helps, if you have any questions feel free to message me. 

You kind of have to get a feel of that environment.

If you feel your assessment is too high, you have the right to contest it.

Feel free to call me with any questions O.T.

Also, I see that you're in Columbia, but if you feel like making the ride down to Charleston, REI Central is tomorrow night and would be well worth your time.

Quote from @Martin Brown: It's totally normal to feel cautious about sharing your building plans, especially when cost and competition are involved.

Feel free to connect to directly discuss as well.Cheers!