Personally, I would only purchase for STR right now on either very unique/special properties or on those that also work out as LTR.I am a licensed REALTOR who is investor focused.

They don't always account for differences in finishes, location nuances, or other unique property features.

Our system is a bit unique.

They have been buying Greek junk bonds lately along with all kinds of other oddball and unique investments.

Each of these have their own attractions and draws and unique activities. 

Do you need unique checks and balances in your away market so someone is representing your interests in the away market--yes.Slow and steady wins the race.  

Now, we do live in a small town, touristy area that does lack in nicer/unique short-term rentals. 

I don't have any answers for you Holli but I'm commenting so I get notifications when others reply to this as it sounds like a unique project and I'd love to hear more!

I truly have a unique situation as one of my mentors mentioned so I am trying to see what the best decision to do with what I have is.

I agree with a lot of the points that you made and while I know it's late to the party as many have already leveraged the COVID boom into managing others, I feel like a lot of folks will be changing managers this year due to poor performance from under-skilled or stagnant managers who set it and forgot it.I think two tiers of services to offer flexibility to the owner is a good idea and makes sense.A few more questions for discussion...What do you, or anyone else reading on the thread, do when a potential client has a property that needs decor work before listing?