Understanding where the market is can help you make better decisions.Use Helpful Tools:Real Estate Apps: Apps like Redfin and Realtor.com offer a lot of info on property values and market trends.Deal Analysis Tools: Consider tools Biggerpockets calculator, they offer a variety of calculators that are very easy to use! 

If you refinance it as your primary residence, then yes, you will be signing a new Mortgage at closing that says you intend to occupy for 12 months, essentially resetting your clock to another 12 months.But here's the huge kicker.

.), Designing and Furnishing (amenities, design, theme, linens, etc), and operating (Insurance, Property management or self-management, Tech & Tools, Cleaners & handy people, etc)All of these could be covered depending on who you work with that can cover each topic. 

I know you mentioned credit + rental history but can you share exactly all the steps you go through and which tools you use?

Having thick skin is essential in real estate investing.

I essentially get 60 payments on the back end of the loan for free.

However, there are some challenges to keep in mind:Regulatory Variations: Regulations can vary widely between locations and are constantly evolving.Active Management: STRs require more hands-on management for guest turnover and communication.Additional Costs: Don’t forget about expenses for furnishings, cleaning, and possibly hiring a property manager.If you’re looking for STR-friendly areas, consider these locations, as others can be too expensive to consider, such as Snowmass Village or Aspen:Breckenridge: The most visited ski resort in North America, attracting around 3 million tourists each year.Steamboat Springs: A popular year-round destination for winter sports and summer activities.Keystone: Great for those wanting a less crowded resort experience.Divide & Florissant: Charming mountain towns close to Colorado Springs.Fairplay: Just 30 minutes south of Breckenridge, with an impressive 82% Airbnb occupancy rate.Cripple Creek: A former mining town now known for casinos and outdoor activities.Park County: Very Airbnb-friendly, though regulations may change.Here are some strategies to help you succeed in the STR market:Hybrid Model: Consider using some units for STRs and others for long-term rentals to balance income.Research Local Regulations: Always check the current rules in your target areas before investing.Year-Round Appeal: Focus on locations that attract visitors in all seasons.Quality Furnishings: Invest in quality to justify higher nightly rates and attract better guests.Dynamic Pricing: Use pricing strategies to maximize revenue during peak seasons while maintaining occupancy in the off-season.Stay Flexible: Be ready to adapt your strategy as the market and regulations change.While Colorado’s STR market offers exciting opportunities, it’s essential to approach it strategically.

I think AirDNA has a few more metrics, but I like the tool as a basic checker.

Given that you have a W2, you most likely do not qualify as a real estate professional since it has to essentially be your main gig. 

So if I understand this correctly they essentially get to build a better score because they are an authorized user on your account but they never actually get to use the cars, is that correct?