Following - good question, and the way you posed it shows that you did your homework.

This is how long-term success is built.

Thanks for the replying @Shiloh Lundahl, here’s what I’m looking for: good areas to invest, good resources to find properties, general information about the buying process, any realtors and other locals that can help, and expected returns in the area for STR.

If you are going to have this asset for a long time it'll be worth the peace of mind knowing its updated. 

It's no guarantee but it's a good place to start.

The ones with really good reviews, and a high amount of reviews usually cost a little more, but do a good job.  

I just was never a good employee and needed to do my own thing. 

Good luck with your STR! 

Good sources to consider would be FRED and NeighborhoodScout.com. 

The fix-up and increased value will not matter to the IRS as long as you sell within a reasonable time frame of the house passing into the estate.