Design/pre-plan as much as possible.

I see them as a high maintenance item that will not be as popular as you think they might.I would do a hot tub first if that could work.EDIT - So I just chatted with my neighbor and he spends about a 2 hours a month keeping his sauna in shape.

When a tenant moves out, transfer the deposit back to Checking so it's ready to apply towards expenses or refund the Tenant.If you end up with excess funds in the Checking account, I recommend you transfer it to a third account designated explicitly for future investments.

What does getting a NARPM designation do except signal to me that you're a PM willing to spend some money with an association? 

They can't be vague and are specifically designed not to be left open to the subjective interpretation of a fact finder. 

My partner's family owns an STR, free and clear, worth between 1.8-2 million in a popular vacation destination.

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

I hired an architect and he did some rough designs.

I’ve been designing residences for so long, but I have yet to invest in RE!

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.