Converting LTR to a STR

[Gini Dutt-Roye]

This will essentially be our first STR after our tenant moves out in the summer.
During this limbo period, what should we do?

-look for a real estate focused CPA, any recommendations?

-cleaning crew. How do we find a crew that will be flexible in their hours. What questions should we ask these crews. Should we tell them that this would be a STR? What tech is essential to ensure that cleaning crew will immediately after check out?

-how do we find plumber/electrician/handyman/

landscaper?  Should we use thumbtack?



-should we do a cost segregation study before after tenant move out or wait till all furniture is in?
Sorry for all the questions, but completely new to this.

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[Michael Baum]

Hey @Gini Dutt-Roye. Yes find a good CPA who knows real estate. It can make all the difference.

Yes, tell your potential cleaning crew this is a STR rental. It is essential. I would have them clean up after the tenant leaves. See how they do. Cleanliness is the most important thing in a vacation rental. People notice everything.

You can look at Yelp, etc for reviews on various handy persons. Make sure they have an on call type of service so you can get someone out there asap.

As for the CSS, it really doesn't affect furniture, linens, small appliances etc as far as I know. Only mechanical systems, the house itself and major appliances, but I would get the CPA first and then make a plan to maximize the deductions. Depreciation is important and it needs to be done correctly.