And of course all the events and attractions that draw people to Myrtle Beach are just 20 minutes away.In addition to Murrells Inlet, I would consider the adjacent Surfside Beach... which sits right between Garden City Beach and Myrtle Beach. 

On average, 80 people move into Columbus weekly.

Do people leave an assignment clause in their purchase agreement that would still allow them assign the contract to a cash buyer able to close on the property in a shorter time period? 

My family is from Italy, and the market there is very slow since people don't tend to move as often as here in the States.

Typically if people are renting a house (ie not rooms in a house), they are responsible for taking care of the yard.

I have spent some time researching real estate investing and have been trying to connect with more people for advice/ opportunities.

Keep building these relationships with other like minded individuals, and if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is - run it by people you trust!

If I book a room that will work for two people (i.e. with two beds) but only book for one person would we be able to change the reservation later to be able to share the room?

I can wait to meet and converse with as many people I can on this journey. 

Another method, is to become an active member of the forums, get to know people.