., guest communication, cleaning, or repairs), and hours worked.

The last time I stayed in one, I was charged a large cleaning fee and then met with a list of what to clean prior to us leaving.

Our Newport condo has consistently been rated highly, and we have been using the same cleaning crew since XXXX because they have consistently done a great job.

Starting with your wife and possibly your kids depending on age (for example, they can help clean between tenants, this starts  their education [Check with your accountant because you may be able to pay your kids and take a deduction].- - While you will do the lion share, can you take advantage of your wife's talents and availability?

Clean water, air, peace and sunshine are nature's remedies and in over-abundance on the Oregon Coast. 

I paid off the loan as the solution.

Another solution is to simply list it as an STR and say "contact host for long term rates".

Then there’s city regulations—some places heavily restrict short-term rentals, so you’ve got to check the rules.If you find the right spot and automate stuff (guest communication, cleaning, etc.), it can be profitable.

It took them several weeks to list my property on the market when there wasn't much to be done but they charge me $600+ for cleaning.

Seems a bit high on the exp ratio near 43% but we do pay a premium for our solid cleaning lady, she also stocks supplies, runs errands and other duties for no "extra" charge.