I take a picture of their driver's license.I ask for phone numbers that accept texts and any alternate land or business phone numbers.I ask for the names and birth dates of anyone under 18, and ask if there are any service / emotional support animals, together with their names and breeds.I also ask for personal references, previous landlord contact info (and length of time there), employer contact info (and how long there, together with earnings), as well as the name and contact information for their manager / boss.

Instead of a co-host can you just get a property manager that specializes in it?

I used to help manage 30+ STRs in the city with a McSwain Management.

Ive been using the same for many years now and its my foundation for operations, follow-up, workflow management and communications. 

Even though I wasn't a good asset manager, I made money on my properties. 

Your property management company can help once you own the property but up until then you need someone good on your side!!! 

How much are you having to pay the management companies?

Cash flow depends on the down payment, but using a HELOC could keep your cash reserves intact while you get started.Make sure to build a reliable team (property managers, agents, etc.) to help you manage the property while working full-time. 

I am a CT based investor, flipper and property management company owner.  

Doing real estate and managing other peoples money from a fund are two very distinct skillsets.