Understand the fees involved and calculate the total cost for an entire year of management so you can compare the different managers.

can't even begin to understand where you are today, but you and your family understand, and that's all that matters! 

Taking real time notes on deficiencies allows for clear understanding if the items make their way to a buyer repair addendum.

They also don't understand the law, or the changes that are happening around the country.

Any owner who understands STR arbitrage will want a premium.

I find this screens out any guests that could have issues and lays the groundwork for a great stay.It also weeds out folks (in our case) that aren't understanding the distance to town and certain activities in our area.

or "No", really don't understand tenant and vacancy management.

While I understand appreciation isn’t something I should necessarily bank on, but I am looking to hold for the long term and eventually relocate to the FL.

So, scope out the competition on #1 & #2 above to understand what the rental or sale market expects.- You will lose money if you go overboard!

If that is so, it behooves you to understand how much that fee is and when it becomes due.