I would recommend seeing what other STR's similar to yours are market as for number of guests.

Has anyone used this device or have another recommendation to monitor water usage? 

If you don't care about making money as a rental, that is my recommendation. 

Do you have recommendation on Agent who can do this?

Anyone you can recommend? 

I do have a co-host, but they're not able to provide much assistance in these areas.Any advice or recommendations for finding reliable handyman services and staging help for out-of-town STR owners?

3.Any recommendations for contractors or permit expediters in Covington who can assist with this process?

The state will get its pound of flesh and my liabilities were better managed by executing perfect permitted work and excellent insurance.I'd sincerely recommend having a savvy CPA, Lawyer & Insurance broker.

I never recommend to my clients to be the ones to deal with the tenants unless they have the experience.2.

Any referrals or recommendations for good and qualified brokers, sellers, property management companies, loan brokers, insurance brokers, mortgage brokers, contractors, etc.