Locking up first short term rental

[Tom Dempsey]

Hey All - 

I am starting the buying process to look into getting my first short term rental property soon and have a few questions that hopefully some of you experienced vets can touch on.

1) What are some extra expenses that I may not be considering going into getting my first STR? Obviously the closing costs, furnishing costs, and utilities all come to mind when first thinking about it but I was curious if anybody has ran into any other issues or unexpected expenses out of the gate.

2) I am curious to know what you guys did for furnishing your rental units? Is this something you outsource or mainly handle yourself?

3) Looking for recommendations for mattresses that you get. I have gotten the memory foam ones in the past but feel they aren't the top quality that is needed for good reviews. (Not sure if this matters as much as I'm making it out to be) 

4) Any recommendations for making the space unique?  I know the typical game room and cozy fire pit is and will always be a hit, but I want something even more exciting than that. 

I appreciate the help in advance! Thanks BP Fam!