I have launched in markets and have been the unique high end stay.

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

As for the first investment, I highly recommend starting small, like with a turnkey property or even a 2-4 unit multi-family.

I would highly encourage paying a GC to walk deals out the gate, have them give a scope of work so you can see what items costs.

A lot of the beach rentals down there are pretty outdated and don't provide many amenities.

Most deals I work, I find that the most inexperienced party in a real estate transaction will end up losing 4-10% of the value of the home in the transaction because they don't know what they are doing. 

Anyone who can provide useful advice would be appreciated.

I have provided them a letter from my broker about the amount that can be used.

If the guest feels slighted, there is no fact checking service provided by AirBnB to confirm their claims, so it is up to you to let future guests know the level of professionalism you provide.If you are able, I would recommend editing your response to the 1-star review.

If your house is old, value is low.