Possibly using mortgage/home equity loan on one unit we own to buy an extra one.3.

It may take 2-3 extra months, but the rent is still coming in.

The only extra pay for guests is the surf-rider.

From an operational standpoint you might also want to consider the cost of any extra tax returns that are needed by the entity as well as any extra accounting fees.Good Luck!

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.

Any taxes not owed, a seller merely file a tax return with the state, just like any other tax returns filed for extra taxes a government has with held. 

Well, STR can work well for people who own a vacation house for personal use, and just want to generate some extra income when not in use.  

Should I take extra steps to verify their identity and legitimacy?

It's easy to obtain, costs very little, and doesn't require extra, on-going effort to maintain.

If it’s a must-have, it might be worth the extra time in your schedule.