You can sell your Subject To on lease option and let the optionee keep up the house.

You could get into a solid multi-unit or a single-family rental with real cash flow instead of hoping your Katy rental eventually fills.Not saying you should walk just yet, but if leasing drags out longer than expected, would you consider selling and reinvesting somewhere with better returns?

With the tech I am using (a lesser known PMS) I am able to automatically screen guests, get their selfies, write leases, and collect deposits in my work flow even for Airbnb guests.

In general, DSCR loans will require the property to be either leased or at least "Rent Ready". 

.✅ Hands-On Experience – If you plan to grow your real estate portfolio, managing tenants yourself can teach you valuable lessons about leases, maintenance, and local rental laws.✅ More Control – You’ll personally handle tenant screening, rent collection, and property upkeep, ensuring everything is done to your standards.✅ Stronger Tenant Relationships – Being involved directly allows you to build rapport with your tenants, which can lead to better communication and longer leases.Cons of Self-Managing❌ Time-Consuming – Dealing with maintenance requests, late-night emergencies, and tenant disputes can quickly become a second job.❌ Legal Risks – Chicago has strict landlord-tenant laws.

So, all parties over 18 need to sign the lease.If they are going to sign the lease, why wouldn't you screen them?

-Management is low - you'll need at least 10% plus leasing costs - typically a month's rent for each lease-up, and sometimes a renewal fee as well-Insurance seems low-Are taxes accurate? 

I realized this again when we had a traveler cancel her lease about a week before moving in.

Additionally, it's easy for a house on one lease to get absolutely trashed by the renter.

When considering a vacation rental property, it’s essential to have a backup plan and understand the numbers for annual leasing.