If you are looking for unbiased feedback on PMs we get a lot from our customers and would be happy to pass it along if we have intel in your area. 

LICENSE AND FEES $8000, CUSTOMIZATION OF THE HOME $5,0000, CONTRACTORS (I HAVE NOT IDEA JUST FROM WHAT I HAVE BEEN TOLD $5-$10,000 BECAUSE THERE ARE NO HEAVY LIFTING, CRANES OR HEAVY TOOLS), AND LETS DO $10,000 FOR EMERGENCIES.

Ideally you want to make sure it's near a major highway so tenants have easy access points to their customer base, especially with the trade type tenants like plumbers, HVAC etc.   

Also, accounting/ metrics are a BIG DEAL because we have a property management company so we need more features to customize reports and look at accurate revenue data.

I do know that the more complex/custom you make it, the harder it is to maintain.   

Previously, I dedicated many years to selling custom and semi-custom residential properties for a highly respected and well-known builder in Atlanta.

I encourage them to purchase travel insurance if concerned.

@Calum ShallenbergerRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

What are your creative ideas and best items you put in your STR that customers rave about in reviews or you think help get more bookings? 

Some of our owners still have very low rents but the average rent increase right now is $0 - $50.Improving the work order response time which is a factor of customer service.