Asking to since I can purchase property in those areas with cash and it will be paid off.I appreciate everyone’s responses thank you.I've been buying in North Texas, OKC, Tulsa, and Little Rock for rentals.

Rock road at the bottom and left.  

Rock Hill, SC is also becoming very popular in this area as so many people move toward the Carolinas and with the increased living costs of Charlotte.

As far as cost, check the natural gas vs electric charges in your area. 

Quote from @Mark Rock: I’m 25 years old, and I recently graduated with a degree in construction engineering. 

I had no idea it was like that, and I've spent a ton of time in WNC, so my idea of the Smokies is nature, hiking, rivers, elk, etc. 

The building currently uses natural gas for heating and hot water.

Short answer:  it is baked into the business model.Long answer:It seems you may be overly concerned on the transitory nature of apartment renters versus single family renters. 

Hi all — My wife Ashley and I are exploring purchasing a turnkey, already-operating short-term rental (Airbnb/VRBO) before year-end.Target budget: <=$300,000Preferred markets: Tyler, TX or Little Rock AreaMust-have criteria:• At least 12 months historic payout data (Airbnb/VRBO)• Furnishings included or negotiable (already in operation)• STR legal / permitted (HOA or city OK)• Good guest-review profile (4.7+), low guest-drama neighborhood (we’d stay there ourselves)• Timeline: Clean close, turnkey transition, quick start.We’re not just dreaming — we’re ready to move quickly if the right property shows up.

They seem like a rock solid company.