I always cover my experience, the brokerages experience, and expectations with communication - 9 - 5, M-F, 24 hr turnaround during business hours, and the owner can reach out to me personally when the team isn't present. 

Streamline your communication process to secure quality tenants.Focus on QualityThe condition of your property matters more now than ever.

., guest communication, cleaning, or repairs), and hours worked.

Has anyone else had this same issue?

However, if you clearly communicated a $15K budget, I’d stick to that and ask them to discuss the overages with the contractor to find a resolution.As a side note, always try to maintain reserves for your properties.

I agree with @Michael Smythe that you need a property manager that communicates well. 

So I would suggest keeping your STR property geographically close and doing as much as possible to keep your profit% high as possible.As far as the actual house you use, I would just say - be honest, be fair and strive for the best area, most amenities, cleanest house, best communication, and any other extras you can get.

More information is needed for the root causes of your plumbing issues to lay blame.

On Thursday, July 12 my contractor stopped communicating with me. 

I've found many properties with title issues wind up with unpaid property taxes so checking on delinquent taxes, tax deed sales and lands available for taxes might help you identify some.