What repairs/improvements do you NEED to do, versus THINK? 

I would use cleaning services but it's my understanding I could use more than one company over the course of the year to limit how many hours one company spends on it.I'm looking into a utilitarian STR more for business travelers, so this won't be one where everything is perfect, it's bound to accumulate wear and tear I think.The STR would be out of state, but I plan to travel there for probably two weeks a year where I would perform many repairs myself.

I’ve spent $51k so far in the last 65 days on property repairs and replacement.

I buy supplies, and keep up with pricing, do repairs, except for electrical, plumbing and A/C.

If one tenant moves out or unexpected repairs pop up, the other property can help cushion the impact.Of course, more properties mean more responsibilities...double the maintenance and potential headaches.

A distressed owner isn't about to upgrade and repair.

@Nicholas Halterman VA loans are great because you can do 0% down and continue to use your savings towards any updates or repairs you would like to do.

Section 8 tenants are really hard on your property so expect to pay more for repairs .

So yes, this is my first time having a contractor leave towards the final stage of a project as other work that I've done are minimal like fence repairs, deck replacements, sink repairs, hvac etc.

As stated, if an owner has the rent checks go directly to them, tenants call a Maintenace coordinator to handle repairs, and have an attorney, what more do they need ?