Because when a hot deal comes up and you need to close fast, that relationship can be the difference in scoring the deal. 

We had our first child so we have been on the sidelines for a hot minute.

If you buy a hot water heater for the other unit, you can write off 100% because you have no personal use of that hot water heater. etc.

It’s inexpensive to provide but can make a big impact.Comfortable Bedding: Investing in high-quality mattresses, pillows, and linens improves the guest experience and leads to better reviews, which can boost occupancy rates.Smart TV or Streaming Services: Offering Netflix, Hulu, or similar services is a low-cost way to enhance guest entertainment and stay competitive.Fully Stocked Kitchen: A well-equipped kitchen with basic appliances and utensils appeals to families and long-term guests, saving them money on dining out.Dedicated Workspace: If your property caters to remote workers, adding a small desk and ergonomic chair can set your listing apart.Outdoor Spaces: If your property allows, an outdoor seating area, fire pit, or hot tub can significantly increase your nightly rate and attract more bookings.Energy-Efficient Features: Guests appreciate eco-friendly options like LED lighting, smart thermostats, or solar panels, especially in eco-conscious markets.Keyless Entry: A smart lock is a relatively small investment but offers convenience and security, which many guests value.If you’re deciding on amenities to add, it’s always a good idea to research your local market.

It's a small rural area about 3 hours S of Anchorage- not exactly a hot RE market, but we love living here and my husband has a fabulous job with about 12-15 years left in his career. 

You'll want to target hot markets that are not oversaturated.

For example, I have a subject property that has 1682 SF on the main floor and 810 SF of finished basement (the majority of which is about 8 feet in height with the exception of some bulkheads to hide the mechanicals) and 271 of semi-finished basement that is a utility room basically (washer/dryer, freezer, hot water heater, furnace, some storage).

Again I am not an expert on CA ski area but I imagine hot tubs are popular amenities. 

I am a CT based investor myself, very hot market!

This is very useful.You could build a deck or gazebo to house a hot tub.