There are thousands that wash out.

Ever have to wash a water heater (located in a kitchen corner because this is a "vintage" house) covered in two inches of dust and hair?  

Anything you can use a checklist on is going to be the same (Change sheets, change comforter and wash every 7th guest, etc.)Hope that helps... and feel free to reach out directly... also, @Al Williamson is developing a great guide for people like yourself who are managing remote rentals.

When I asked him if he was licensed and insured (usually the fact that you don't have a ladder is a dead giveaway), he said if he was he would be able to charge me thousands of dollars for it.

How does that all work out in the wash for you?  

What was he thinking?

Biggest mistake is owners think they can open up and all this business will wash over them like money falling from the sky.It doesn't work that way.

@Danielle Golden-Banks @Dan TracySorry I'm late to the party, but what I meant to say was, he should explain which niche he is planning on doing, so I would try to help him.

Also, while they may pay for the actual title policy, their other fees are usually higher and it's almost a wash anyway.  

If you have carpet pull up and paint sub floor with Kilz oil base. wash down everything if you have not sealed your baseboard and other trim by caulking the edge, do so this keeps hair from getting between trim and walls.