Creative things sellers can do sell their house-Seller contributions-seller funded permanent buy down-seller funded temporary buydown-owner financing-contract for deed-seller second-lease option and lease purchase-wraparound and assumable mortgageTwo: creative things buyers can do to purchase a home-gift funding-selling and refinancing existing assets-nonoccupant co-borrowers-using a 401(k)-temporary IRA transfer-pledged asset mortgage-equity transfer and bridge loan-employer assisted mortgageThree: creative things lenders can do to finance a transaction:-lender funded buydown-Fannie Mae's my community mortgage-running scenarios with automated underwriting systems-adjusting amortization period to lower payment-adjusting interest rates to cover closing costs-state, province, and local grant or bond programs-mortgage credit certificate-private lendingAll the three players above, the seller, buyer, and lender, can bring creative solutions to the table to get a house sold." end quoteMost brokers don't know these either, or know them and don't inform - teach their agents.This is through my direct experience.

If you are borderline on the occupancy, my advice would be to continue to save and also see if you have any family that would be willing to give you a gift since gift funds are allowed on second homes. 

Gift cards sometimes help, but we’ve had them not work at all.

Biggest things are:Ensuring the place is actually clean before the guest arrivesMaking sure all consumables are stocked up: TP, paper towels, soaps, shampoosMaking sure all remotes are in the right place and not lost.Basic cooking needs is a big one people have asked about in previous airbnbs I have managed, i.e mixing bowls, measuring cups etc.Other wise there are some things that arent "needed" but can sure go a long way, such as leaving a $5-6 bottle of wine or some candy for your guests to enjoy, or things such as gift cards to some local place nearby.

I'm not sure I want to discount any rent because I don't want to set a precedent for rent withholding, but was thinking maybe a $100 gift certificate to a nice restaurant in town makes sense?

I have the meaas to pay off whatever she owes but I’m someone who doesn’t make a lot of money but was gifted a chunk of change.May I DM you to talk about the specifics of what you did?

@Shulem Elias, @Joe VilleneuveJoe is 100% spot on with his response and in the Christmas card you send that agent for warning you regardless how you feel about her wanting to PM the property afterward should include a gift card for Dunkin or Starbucks.  

You could help her by gifting a down payment?

I was even thinking about a small $50 amazon/gift card for both of them?

A nice gift from parents for newly weds with a new house is an extra house pmt principal only.