Hey @Buck Dabill, it's difficult to say without the data, but we would assume if the property is on a lake (especially one used for fishing or summer activities) you could demand a higher nightly rate.

In fact the demand is stronger than I've ever seen it, though prices are high.

Or you go north, which makes you a lot more remote, far away from the next Home Depot, and a long drive for everyone, but opens you up the snowmobile and ice fishing season.IMO the most important thing is to buy quality real estate, no matter how you rent it.

The Packwood, WA market encompasses this mantra, with a flood of weekend warriors up to White Pass ski area in the Winter, and absolute Hunt/Hike/Bike/Fish Mecca in the Summer/Fall.

While I am down here in South Florida, where real estate is a sport and finding a parking spot feels like an investment strategy, house hacking can work anywhere if you play it right.Since you are new to the area, I would start by getting a feel for rental demand.

There is demand for it and demand in this area for affordable housing, in a tourist area where plenty of people have vacant, second/third homes for seasonal fishing and hunting.

I just got an email from the HOA attorney demanding close to $2000 for past due fees.

not an expert at this.. but the few times i have rented STR I don't even look at reviewsI rent by price.. as its usually for a fishing trip and I just want a bed bathroom and close to the lake or river LOl could care less about a review. 

This area is a tourist town where people who love the outdoors go to vacation (golfing, fishing, lake sports with the family, lots of quaint country downtown areas, etc...).

It sounds like you've got a solid foundation and a great game plan, especially with your background in North Padre and passion for fishing, which could really set your STR apart.