You can also request recent inspection reports and detailed photos.

In 15 months since I booked the property, Wagner has provided me with an exterior photo of just the first property, and I probably wouldn't even have known that there is no progress made on the other property if I had not visited the site myself recently.  

Flying in monthly helps, but having a local contact (realtor, manager, or trusted partner) is key for regular updates.Use tools like progress photos, video calls, or project management apps to stay connected, and schedule visits at critical stages of the project.

Then get photos and get third party verification that everything was done right prior to making your final payment to the contractor.

This isn't photo shop. 

I see some hosts doing an "I forgot" box and adding that to their listing photos.

As others have said, if you post the address you will get more targeted advice about condition, price, photos, strategy, etc.

.), and you've made your House Rules clear, then don't sweat the small stuff.By that, I mean- you'll have guests who have 5-star ratings but can still leave a mess or damage (other owners didn't report accurately or it was complicated) but you have recourse via photo evidence (your cleaners, etc.) to ask for reimbursement (or use something like AirCover, etc.).

When ever I had gotten too persistent about sending photos, he would change the subject or find a reason why he couldnt document the progress.  

I've seen rental units get leased with iPhone photos that have good lighting.