I am a professional photographer and have been doing that for the past 18 years, so I'll also be building my business in NC from the ground up!

Readers are advised to seek professional advice.

I've read mixed reviews on host experiences with VRBO and Booking.com, so I've been hesistant to list there.Currently, using PriceLabs and tweaking/ analyzing pricing a few times a week.Honestly, my photos are not the greatest yet, but it is a high priority for me to get professional photos soon.

I see the same (professional) Tenants coming to my Court every couple of years, with a NEW Landlord.

Cleaner took pictures of the condition she found it, then after cleaning.

I started my first year with a 3 day minimum because I couldn't find a cleaner who could do Saturdays, they were all booked up. 

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

--reach out and thank them upon getting the booking and ask if they have any questions--send a "Welcome" email or automated message during the week prior to arrival--reach out the day after arrival to ask how everything was the first night and ask if there is anything that the property needs--reach out at the end of the stay (that morning or within 24 hours) and ask how everything was, anything to improve, anything to add to the house and then offer an incentive for returning guests.My 2 cents,Mike Absolutely stay in your place as Mike said.You will see things the cleaners will never let you know about.We stayed in our PF will putting up the Christmas decorations and found a cracked plastic shelf in the fridge. 

I am primarily hosting traveling medical personnel because there is a lot of demand for these professionals in our area and because my units are suited to their needs.

.: I think you meant to type was… Thanks @Jeff S.for your free professional advice.