So how do you cut through the noise to find the base rate? 

., damages, noise complaints).

Some will go with a nicer pad and a cheaper carpet.The nicer pad makes the carpet FEEL more expensive to the tenant when they walk on it.A great pad also resists wear and tear and if you need to replace the carpet the pad usually can be used again.Used to you would put a plastic membrane in between the carpet and pad to protect the pad but the plastic would slide and make noise sometimes.Now they have pads with built in protection.You are not looking for the cheapest product but the best VALUE for what you pay.It depends on the area and what kind of tenants and rent base you are working with.

., one piece of paper in the driveway), though we did have a bad guest that partied into the night and stole some of my furniture (the pulled the plug on the WiFi so noise monitoring was off).

I would recommend you install noise sensors so keep a tab on guests and collect CC information from every guests.

However, make sure to communicate any noise policies to guests to maintain good relations with neighbors.Pricing Strategy: Research similar properties in the area to set competitive pricing.

You ignore the noise and move on and run the company and they feel what they did was in the best interests of the company and owners.Everyone said the same when the original owner sold… Remember it’s the people and community that contribute that make or break your experience.

The most relevant exceptions are the last three above in bold.Theres a lot of noise about the topic and its very confusing but the above are the actual rules atleast regarding conventional fannie/freddie financing. 

Use your common sense and critical thinking to eliminate the "noise" (wrong/not practical information).

I think if you were sharing walls or in same house, then certain quiet hours in lease or noise restrictions can help prevent some issues.