I'm particularly passionate about multi family and new construction homes Outside of real estate, I enjoy spending time with my wife and kids in the outdoors. 

Both of those markets have appeal, but you’re spot on that seasonality is the big difference: • Shenandoah Valley, VA → More year-round draw (hiking, national park traffic, weddings, college visits, outdoor tourism).

Many of these are close to major Universities and "outdoor" attractions. 

I agree with Arman: look for "steady demand drivers like universities, hospitals, or outdoor attractions."

I saw Led Zeppelin live at Kezar Stadium ( San Fran) it was Bill Grahms first out door concert.. before that it was Winterland  and the Fillmore West and sometimes the COW palace..

Areas like Oak Hill/Fayetteville tend to have great STR performance during peak outdoor months, but winter softness is real.

It works better than Wi-Fi to record nonstop outdoors.

The other scalability problem with STR is that each unit has its own mortgage, insurance policy, a property tax bill, outdoor areas requiring maintenance, HVACs that go out and cost a fortune, and many other potential expenses and time black holes that are specific and exclusive to each unit you own. 

Now, if you can invest in your outdoor space, that seems to make a difference no matter who your guest avatar is. 

Value is added by upgrading a few things interior ( new hardwood floor throughout the house, new fence around the entire property, upgraded kitchen and bathroom cabinets, added a new deck and outdoor kitchen) What was the outcome?