Each property should be evaluated based on its characteristics and overall quality as an investment.

By definition, these type of loans are not the same quality as what is traded on wall street. 

And although I'm grateful to have found another lender to get it done, it cost me more money in points, a higher interest rate because of the current rate was higher than previous, and I had to buy another appraisal for $750.The response I received from one of the founders of the company states: "We are not able to refund any amounts at this time as the time of quality control has passed....

For example, should we focus on acquiring one high-quality property in a strong market, or would it make more sense to spread the investment across multiple lower-cost units in emerging areas?

That is in the contract as a deterrent to prevent an owner from using our services to find a high-quality resident and then moving the management, thereby hurting our reputation with the residential community. 

It’s inexpensive to provide but can make a big impact.Comfortable Bedding: Investing in high-quality mattresses, pillows, and linens improves the guest experience and leads to better reviews, which can boost occupancy rates.Smart TV or Streaming Services: Offering Netflix, Hulu, or similar services is a low-cost way to enhance guest entertainment and stay competitive.Fully Stocked Kitchen: A well-equipped kitchen with basic appliances and utensils appeals to families and long-term guests, saving them money on dining out.Dedicated Workspace: If your property caters to remote workers, adding a small desk and ergonomic chair can set your listing apart.Outdoor Spaces: If your property allows, an outdoor seating area, fire pit, or hot tub can significantly increase your nightly rate and attract more bookings.Energy-Efficient Features: Guests appreciate eco-friendly options like LED lighting, smart thermostats, or solar panels, especially in eco-conscious markets.Keyless Entry: A smart lock is a relatively small investment but offers convenience and security, which many guests value.If you’re deciding on amenities to add, it’s always a good idea to research your local market.

Where you fall in that range will be dictated by bedroom count per unit and the quality of the area/building itself.

@Tom Dieringer After purchasing my first property in 2024, I acquired most of my short-term rental (STR) knowledge from The Short Term Shop, which included maintaining respectful communication with guests, keeping calendar availability up-to-date, and ensuring high-quality listings.When I initially began May of 2024, I opted to list my property exclusively on a single Online Travel Agency (OTA) - Vrbo.

Having the contractor relationship in place to move quickly and provide a high quality renovation at a reasonable price.

This method typically provides an accurate, data-driven view before deciding to move forward with a property.