I definitely get most of my information here + my software email updates usually keep me pretty well informed. 

My strategy incorporates asset protection measures like LLCs, specific trusts as well as professional property management to spread risk and ensure quality operations.As well as using tax codes to my benfiitSection 179, IRC Section 162, Cost Segregation and Bonus Depreciation and later 1031 them out for larger projects. 

A 50% decline in asset value would result in a $10,000 loss, double the loss of the unleveraged asset.  

There is so much free content out there that can teach you about guest services, software, vendor management, and so on. 

Pricing - If you cannot check your competitions price and adjust yours daily you may want pricing software (PriceLabs probably best for single listing owners/operators). 

The developers pushing agents to sell one of their townhouses as a STR really inflated the asset cost cause they were pricing it on a revenue structure, not asset.

A lot of people really undervalue the power of a few paid off assets.

If passive income is the priority, hiring a good property manager could ease the burden while keeping the asset working for you.

I’m struggling to understand why all of this is necessary just to use their property management software.

The seller was willing to take a secondary position on other property assets and provide a 3yr 4% interest on his loan.