Believe there's a significant difference between beachside and non in terms of  short and long term rentals (and $$$).

In terms of intertwining the two businesses, my partner does not typically blend the two as of now.

Currently I only invest in the University of Illinois area (Urbana/Champaign) and even though the state is a mess in terms of budget the University has strong roots as a top public institution.  

We don't have a lot of leeway in terms of how to structure them, a little worksheet basically does everything and that's that.

It could cause some issues with lenders, in terms of needing a personal guarantee, but this seems like not such a big deal.

It's hitting right around the 1% rule in terms of sale price and gross rents.  

From there, it's a matter of analyzing those properties closest to the property you are looking at - both geographically and in terms of specifications - to properties further out from the subject property.

And I am unlikely to spend much time on a potential client who is very general in terms of goals/property.  

In terms of affordability, the Midwest is best.

Just think about it in terms of the discount brokers....they all advertise the exact commission they are charging, because that is set by their company policy.