That would just be a lease agreement provided by the landlord.

From all my landlord schooling I knew in my gut that wasn’t the right thing to do, so here we are.Any advice appreciated - thanks.

Some services only provide positive reporting, so they won't report the delinquency, and many only work with large landlords. 

In summary, an ejectment seems far more burdensome for the Landlord/property owner than a eviction in a typical landlord/tenant relationship. 

I know the question is mainly focused on what sorts of special protections you will need as a landlord with a lease as opposed to a longer-term AirBnB booking, so let me answer that first. 

We all signed leases individually and the landlords never had special zoning or permits.

If that isn't feasible for his situation I'd recommend looking for rentals in the southern/middle part of the country where price points are much easier and the laws are landlord friendly.

Alternatively, I also help landlord/investors rent out their properties and can help place tenants (complete with the application/screening/viewing process). 

For example, at one point I talked with a lawyer that thought an 11 month lease would better protect the landlord and the tenant from some of the changes to the new eviction requirements.Best,Eric

I am looking to purchase a multi-family home, outside of New York due to tenant-landlord issues here (really the fear of it).