When looking at basic market fundamentals, I would identify a market with strong job and population growth, a diverse economy (multiple industries for employment), affordability/wallet share (rent should ideally be less than 30% of income), and low vacancy rates (less than 5%).

The relative attractiveness of a Short-Term Rental (STR) for the "Loophole Strategy" hinges on meeting two core IRS requirements: the property must be classified as a non-passive business and the owner must materially participate. 

All of our apartments are near schools, so we do attract stable long-term families too.In a typical apartment turnover is about 50% per year. 

I give my thoughts in my weekly Skeptical Take below.My Skeptical Take:I do agree with the direction of Yardi’s analysis, but its economic forecast is a very conservative estimate.It all out ignores what I view as likely accelerated GDP growth in 2026, as new tax policy and an extraordinary AI Industrial Revolution drive productivity gains and fatten both company and consumer wallets (I know that sounds gross, but that is the most likely scenario.

There are reasons people will tell you differently and that is to make your wallet lighter into their wallet.

The market here had one of the highest rental yields globally in 2024 and continues to attract both seasoned and first-time investors internationally.

If you are not getting showings, you are not attractive.

Or sell your primary, evict cousin & convert rental into your new primary.If you do choose to sell the rental, check to see if loan is assumable -- that is something attractive to advertise in this buyer's market.

If you post an intake form with criteria and expectations, you’ll attract the right fit fast. 

What I would say though, is that the learning and the connections you are seeking are a byproduct of having a system that attracts capital partners and the right team.May I ask: what's one part of your current "process" for that SC deal that feels more like guessing than a confident step?