@Collin Hays when I think of a STR in the smokies, THIS is what I invision, and seek for what closest matches within the budget....

What are the closest markets where it is still legal?

Probably the closest anything to passive is investing in a REIT.

The closest duplex is in a high crime area where I don't anticipate tenants making payments.

In my ads I post very specific details on the neighborhood and distances from the closest schools, etc so they have a solid idea of the area. 

I have used every major bank and they are all the same, I recommend using the one that has the closest branch to you.

from my advice rural properties and developments aren't successful and you are climbing an uphill battle. sounds a little niche. we focus on developing and not reinventing the wheel. if this is truly what you want to focus all your time and energy on then visit the closest 5-10 of these that look like the ones you are interested and ask if they'd expand or build a secondary one. do a lot of research before you just take action 

Closest thing you'd be able to get to $300k PP and 1% rule would be duplexes in the outskirts.

I am looking to invest in the areas listed in the title of this post since these are closest to my home currently, so if anyone may have some knowledge on these markets they would like to help with/share, I am all ears.

Some of my closest friends went to undergrad there!