Buying a coast property close to Canberra

Some time in the near future, I would like to buy a coastal property within close proximity to Canberra, This will be my first investment. I want rent it out a few times a year and use it for holidays with my family from time to time. Not sure If I can do both? Anyone here know if I can? and how I would need to structure this correctly? I want to start looking around and do some research on different areas of the coast. The areas Im particulary interested in looking at are: Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla, or Meriimbula (Bega valley) Are there any others who are doing this at the moment and can tell me about their experiences in doing so. Are there other things I should consider that I may not of thought about doing this?
Some of the things I want to look at are:
1. Social ecomomic's of the different areas.
2.Future planned roads and developments
3.Previous sale prices on properties
4.Rules around subdivision 5.Rules around holiday letting.
5.Crime rates
6.Community Housing hot spots

Your thoughts and opinions are welcomed Looking forward to your assistance. Thank you!

 

paging @BuyersAgent

 

he's probably very busy now.