Winter definitely slows things down in many markets, especially in colder regions.A few strategies that have worked for me during the off-season include:Offering slightly reduced rent for longer lease terms (like 15 or 18 months) to avoid winter lease ends in the futureProviding flexible move-in dates or short-term leases that end in spring or summerIncluding small move-in perks like a rent credit or gift card to boost interest without reducing rent across the boardIncreasing marketing efforts and refreshing listings on listing platforms more frequently to stay visibleIt’s all about staying proactive and making your units stand out.

This creates more turn and more frequent turn on the property for tenants in and out. 

After you have a property identified is better since rates can change very frequently.

I still have a W2 (Frequent travel...) so self-management isn't my plan for now.I also have a couple of pieces of property in North Georgia that I would like to build out with a small single-family home or even a manufactured home.

Therefore you cannot look at it in a vacuum you need to review it as part of your plan.

In CA building codes are revised frequently, electricians must take "on going education " & test & re-certify with the state annually.

People will not book your place because you have a garbage disposal, nor you can increase your price because of having it yet it breaks frequently and requires a lot of maintenance.  

PM Software.xlsxAttached is a worksheet that compares three PM software packages (that are discussed frequently on the forums). 

The key is having a place near bases with high TDY rates where on base lodging is frequently unavailable.

I do check frequently to make sure the access to the buildings remains properly shoveled and do clean up shoveling if necessary.