Unlike some buyers, I ALWAYS go look at the properties before the sale and discovered that the vacant lot had an active railroad track on it and therefore was unbuildable, and would remain unbuildable until the railroad removed their track. 

A vacation rental could generate higher returns but requires more active management.

I would also look at like kind properties that are listed and active in that area too.

And yes, they ARE actively policing it.

Quote from @Garrett Brown: Hey @Josh Ball , this is basically what I do on the most successful properties I have ever had. www.cameronranchglamping.com It mainly depends on a few things.How close are you to a metro hub/ activities?

But some believe condos are riskier due to potential mismanagement of the community by the HOA.As an out of state buyer seeking a low risk/maintenance LTR, are there any glaring downsides to buying and renting out a condo? 

Readers should seek professional advice.

Is your goal to use being an agent for your own personal investments or actively try and grow your agent business to eventually leave your W2?

The 'good guys' on here can help the newbies by pointing out the very obvious trolls......Just my $0.02 I think if we have active moderators and active community to help put them back in the bag it will be fine as well.

If you find someone giving you confused looks, seek a mortgage broker that helps investors.I'm not so sure how they would calculate income from short-term rentals.