Outfitting an Airbnb; economics vs. convenience

[Pat Jackson]

I'm considering partnering with someone to try and Airbnb.  I'm inspired to try running an Airbnb long distance.  https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/biggerpoc...

 This situation is appealing, as my partner would provide a newly remodeled 3 bed, 1 bath.  I would provide all the furnishings, (he already has the big appliances; washer, dryer, range, fridge), small appliances, linens, beds, couches, chairs, etc.  I would slowly manage more and more of the bookings, clients, etc as we built systems.  I get to learn about Airbnb from afar, he get's to see if it works locally.

Although I'd be keen to hear if BP members think this is a great or horrible idea, I'm more interested in how to most economically and conveniently stock an Airbnb.  I live in Reno, the house is in Missouri.  It's not unfeasible for me to travel to Missouri for a long weekend, hit up thrift stores, garage sales (though it's not really garage sale season), and craigslist to get used items.  However these items don't always come with receipts, one can't claim depreciation (at least I don't think I can), I can't maximize airline points buying items through airline portals 

https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/biggerpoc...

 I'd have to rent a truck of Toro, and buy an airline ticket.  

Combine these downfalls with my time, and I'm curious if I'm not better off pulling up various Airbnb checklists like this one https://bnbnomad.com/airbnb-kitchen-checklist/, and buying it all online between Black Friday and Cyber Monday.  They online sales events seem to all be about the same thing these days anyway.

I realize this second option will result in less cool stuff.  Nothing will really be chic, vintage, or otherwise awesome.  However I won't buy bottom of the barrel stuff, and I think (based mainly off my own airbnb stays where I just used the unit to sleep in) online purchase will suffice.  I'll end up spending more on the stuff, but factoring in travel and my time, will I really spend more?

Anyone have any experience in any of this?