We handle a lot of out of state clients and can work with you to schedule video tours if you are out of the area or show you some properties if you are in town.

@Stephanie Gothart There are some good YouTube videos on this.

I have no experience in this field aside from the books and videos I've been watching (Drinking from a fire hose).

However, our realtor did an amazing job of putting us at ease and going the extra mile with videoing unit and going over to look at anything when we had questions or concerns.

And perhaps also do a video tour like this?  

Youll also so a lot of the other videos on fasting.

This is why I highly suggest hosts check into the info Justin Ford has, and the educational videos and course he provides.

If they are going to be there post closing, at minimum have your agent do a final walk and take photos and video as you will now be the landlord and responsible to hold them accountable for any damage, so document.Once you get it up as a STR, you should go at least once a quarter to make sure cleaners are doing a great job and make any needed repairs or adjustments.

I have been reading books, watching a few videos (although most seem like they are selling something), and reading articles online.

Here's a PARTIAL list:Office rentComputers, printers & softwareInternet & phone billOffice furnitureOffice supplies: paper, postage, ink, etc.Office liability insuranceAuto expenses: monthly payment, insurance, gas, maintenance, registration/plate feesBroker license fees: annual, monthly board & MLS fees, continuing education fees, E&O insuranceEquipment: lockboxes, signs, etc.Business income tax preparation and paymentsStaff payroll & payroll taxes Time Tasks: answering phones, calling past due tenants, scheduling tours, taking marketing pics, processing those pics, writing ads, researching rent amounts, posting ads, explaining to owners how rent determined & showing where ad posted, opening & processing mail, posting payments, bank deposits, scanning documents & posting to owner & tenant portals, explaining accounting to owners so they understand their monthly statements, taking pics/videos of repairs, finding reputable handymen and contractors, confirming they're properly licensed & insured and tracking annually, verifying repairs done properly, processing invoices for utility bills, repairs, taxes, city inspections, scheduling periodic property evaluations/inspections with tenants that don't want strangers in their homes, explaining to owners why taking so long, and more & more & more...