When I checked that location on one of the crime sites I discovered that robberies and assaults occur frequently at the strip mall and that the situation appears to have been the same for the past few years.

Smaller septic tanks require more frequent pumping.Knowing how the system works should reduce your fear.  

There is a frequent trend with people moving from the bigger cities to Myrtle Beach and Asheville my guess is retirees, retiring soon, and/or people who are in affluent positions due to finances.

Let's break down the pros and cons of investing in a vacation home for short-term rental versus a single-family home for long/mid-term rental, and the potential impact of each decision over a 10-year period.Investing in a vacation home for short-term rental:Pros:The potential for higher rental income during peak vacation seasonsThe opportunity to use the property for personal vacation timePotential for tax benefits associated with owning a rental propertyAppreciation in the property value over time due to its location near the beachHigher nightly rental rates for a vacation home compared to a long-term rentalCons:Seasonal fluctuations in rental incomeHigher maintenance costs associated with short-term rentalsPotential for more wear and tear on the property due to frequent guest turnoverHigher cost of entry due to the desirable location near the beachMay require a property manager to handle guest turnover and maintenance, reducing profitabilityImpact over 10 years:If you invest in a vacation home, you may see appreciation in the property value over 10 years, particularly if it is located in a desirable beach area.

I made a go at that for a while but people (in my area anyway) are FREQUENTLY waiving the inspection in order to gain favor with sellers.

The casinos continue to expand and we are getting new businesses and industries (Hollywood 2.0).  

This is a frequently asked question and as such has many answers; check out the links in this thread for a sampling:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/84/topics/703...

Frequently there is a sheet metal plate that needs to be removed from the duct under or beside the evaporative cooler and it needs to be stowed for summer to be replaced in the fall. 

If thay is your target audience and your in a fly to market then yes.Make sure they are checked frequently to make sure they are in good condition. 

@Caleb Mallory A frequent sticking point for many property owners that prompts a lot of questions here on BP are the expectations and/or confusion around repairs.