Hire a company/person that is solely a QI like @Dave Foster they do it every day and will keep you legal and on track. 

Quote from @Elias Halvorson: Definitely do not pay that upfront fee.

I guess to get a definite answer I'll have to cold call to get see if all these people are behind on their payment or it's just a standard practice behind some salesmen!

I am definitely hosting at least 1 open house every weekend and that is actually how I found my first clients!

If this is a big-ticket item, you might consider legal action against Airbnb.  

Indianapolis and surrounding areas often offer strong rental demand and reasonable property prices, so you’re definitely looking in the right place.For neighborhoods in Indianapolis, I’d suggest checking out areas like Fountain Square, Bates-Hendricks, and Irvington.

You will attract all scumbags in this world and soon find out your repair and legal cost will easily pass your yearly income.

An LLC is potentially one minor factor that might contribute to the evidence that you are running your rental activity as a trade or business, but it's definitely not required that you have an LLC to qualify.

Beyond real estate it’s definitely worth checking out.

Link to article about Falls Event center founder that recently went under & is facing major legal issues.