This also leads owners to ASSUME simpler is better when it comes to management contracts.

Yes. build to rent in urban core adjacent neighborhoods. traditionally in our market in Columbus Ohio existing inventory was good 2014-2020. as prices rose, the cost to build started to match existing inventory prices because of supply shortage, especially for 2-4 multiunit dwellings. around that time we started to look at new construction and land. we found that land is a 12 month or more supply in our market which makes it a buyers market and you can design any structure you want in new construction. if you like a layout or floorplan all you have to do is design it. after that we looked at the right unit mix and Floorplans and layouts. we started looking at high rent per square foot layouts that were better than single family.

But as a tax accountant who sees these things in real life and how they work over long periods, I usually think there'd have been a better way to structure the investment.

To me it is better for him to do a consulting agreement with you.  

I bet you heard but the market around those areas are booming right now, especially since it is a buyers market, it gives you an advantage to get better deals from sellers while people are continously moving there, especially for jobs like tech, logistics, etc. 

There's got to be a better way.

High-end furniture, premium mattresses, and a full kitchen setup can increase costs, but prioritizing durability and guest comfort—such as a high-quality king bed, sturdy sofa, and reliable appliances—can enhance the guest experience and drive better reviews.From a tax perspective, furnishings and appliances are depreciable assets, but how you deduct them depends on cost and timing:Items under $2,500 per unit can be expensed immediately under the de minimis safe harbor election (timing of when placed in service may result in the need to capitalize).Larger purchases above $2,500 typically must be depreciated over 5 or 7 years using MACRS.Bonus depreciation (60% in 2024, 40% in 2025) allows accelerated write-offs for qualifying property, including furniture and appliances.Section 179 may allow immediate deductions for certain furnishings, but eligibility depends on taxable income.Since you plan to materially participate in 2025, STR losses may offset W-2 or other active income.

That being said I know we have a lot of people championing for the return of an even better app, but no set timeframe for something like that yet. 

Additionally, highlighting the benefits of midweek stays, like quieter surroundings and better prices, can help attract more bookings.

We tested a bunch of paid services and, honestly, found that some of the free ones like TruePeopleSearch and FastPeopleSearch were just as good for most cases.Now, I’m not saying you can’t find a better paid option, but you have to ask yourself what you’re really paying for.