To maintain true independence, I think a strict subscription model is the better way to go.

But if it's strictly str only, no personal use, IRS seems to allow deductions and losses as any other rental.

If you're going the umbrella insurance route, perhaps see if it will cover you for several things including just the routine slip and fall (like mold or earthquake).

I routinely have dogs run through the screen around the pool, as I don’t think they see the screen.  

are they pretty strict?  

Putting five unrelated occupants in one home means five cars parked outside, five different group friends visiting the home, increased likelihood of noise or parties, and other problems.Personally, I have pretty strict requirements when three or more unrelated people are renting together because of the potential problems.

. - Making sure their responsibilities and your responsibilities are clearly defined, giving heads up about workers coming in to do upgrades/maintenance, being proactive about renewals, deposits, strict about the lease agreement (but lenient when it makes sense), etc. has been instrumental. 2.

Often, states will provide child support calculators, which are a great starting tool for those strictly looking for an estimation; these calculators tend not to get into the nitty-gritty of finances, however, as they don’t factor in your specific circumstances.

@David Herfel, connect with an investor-focused real estate agent in your respective market who has house hack before or routinely helps and services house-hack buyers.

I had to evict one tenant already and am being much more strict in my screening process.