Utility bills and maintenance records will give insight into operational costs.

Hostaway's lack of transparency in their pricing makes them pretty hard to recommend to anyone since these types of "custom" pricing schemes are often used as a means of upcharging new customers. 

As an investor-focused agent in the Cleveland market I always have my clients write the following contingencies in when buying a house that's tenant occupied:1) Offer contingent on home inspection- usually a 7-10 day contingency period, this contingency allows you to either A) move forward with the deal B) renegotiate the price if issues are found, or C) walk away from the deal2) Offer contingent on appraisal if you're going financing3) Seller to provide copy of current lease agreement4) Seller to provide a rent roll/tenant ledger with proof of payments received5) Seller to provide copies of 3 previous months of any utilities paid by the landlord6) Seller and tenants to fill out Estoppel Certificate.

*Investor-Focused Solutions: Custom loan structures that make it easier to get deals done, from seasoned pros to first-time investors.I’m passionate about helping investors simplify the loan process and make smarter financial moves.

From there, you can utilize that team to gain experience and understanding into the market.  

Ryan,Thanks so much for the response, can i utilize this if i am not currently renting the property out?

Understanding my customer, I bought similar properties to what they were currently renting.This strategy is similar to how national retail chains operate: identify your target customers and provide what they want.

Keeping this as a rental would not cover the mortgage (we'd have to pay ~1500 a month including utilities) and we can afford the extra payment, but is it worth it when looking at appreciation?

Looking for some understanding about because of my planned exit strategy.I have some questions about: 1> Cash Out Refi LTV: Single assets versus multiple properties2> Terms and best practices:3> Utilizing a Realtor4> Personal Guarantees: Stabilized/ Performing vs Personal creditSet up:Utilizing non amortized seller financing to acquire the property @ 35000/60 months.Rehab Estimates are not in in yet the property.

Utilities are absent.