It's weird to me that I see here certain PM praised like crazy, but their properties sit vacant for a long time because no one calls back or answers the phone. 

Many firms nowadays service all states, and through phone, email, and zoom calls you basically have everything you need.

I don't recommend using cameras that work on cell phone networks as there is too much delay in the recording. 

Can someone recommend a good third-party phone service to field tenant maintenance requests, etc. thanks so much

@Eryn Garcia  I agree with @Eli Kantor  the hot tub instructions with photos really saved us a phone call at one short term rental and that is saying something since my husband can figure most things out. 

We call the employer, and we never use the phone number provided by the applicant because they could be routing us to a friend or family member.

You can leave a voicemail thoughTheir phone number is 877-313-8601I will post again if I have a solution

Because I also own and buy actively, I also have the proven vendors that further save my clients money from insurance, landscaping, pest control, pool care, and handymen/hvac/plumbing/electrical.With that said, I’ll send you those properties today per our phone consultation @James Thompson and we’ll be sure you get your 1031 funds allocated smoothly and into great STRs 👍

I would have phoned the utilities to let them know the place was being sold and the closing date.

Once I explain our process, the relief that washes over them is magical.Here's how we handle it:We charge an admin fee for breaking the lease.The tenant remains responsible for rent and utilities until a new tenant moves in.We take on the burden of marketing, showing the property, and screening new tenants.